Major Advancements in Child and Maternal Health in Sindh
Recent developments in child and maternal health in the province of Sindh have been highlighted by officials, showcasing significant progress driven by government initiatives. According to a spokesperson for the Government of Sindh, Sukhdev Hemnani, these achievements are the result of strategic investments, strong collaborations, and a commitment to accessible healthcare services.
The efforts have led to a notable reduction in neonatal mortality rates across the province. Hemnani emphasized that through focused policies and partnerships, the government has managed to bring down the neonatal mortality rate in Sindh to 2.9%, which is much lower than the national average of 5.4%. This achievement is particularly impressive when considering the performance of public paediatric emergency rooms that operate in conjunction with the ChildLife Foundation. In these facilities, child mortality has dropped even further to 1.2%, making it one of the most successful health outcomes in Pakistan at the provincial level.
Expanding Neonatal Care Facilities
A key component of the government’s strategy has been the expansion of neonatal and paediatric intensive care facilities. The Sindh Institute of Child Health and Neonatology, which operates as Pakistan’s largest neonatal network, has played a crucial role in this effort. Hemnani pointed out that this network spans multiple districts in Sindh and has treated over 1 million babies within just three years. This expansion ensures that more children have access to critical medical care, especially in areas where such resources were previously limited.
Additionally, the government has made strides in providing quality emergency care for children. Through public-private partnerships, a 24/7 telemedicine network has been established across 105 tehsils in Sindh. This initiative ensures that every child in the province can receive state-of-the-art emergency care within 30 minutes, and it is provided free of charge. This system significantly improves the chances of survival for children in urgent need of medical attention.
Supporting Mothers and Families
Hemnani also highlighted the importance of the maternal and child support programme, which serves as a cornerstone of the government’s child health strategy. This programme offers cash incentives to encourage antenatal check-ups, safe deliveries, and postnatal care. By doing so, it promotes better health outcomes for both mothers and their children.
The spokesperson emphasized that addressing child health cannot be done in isolation. It requires a holistic approach that involves mothers, families, and community systems. “Our leadership understands that child health must include the broader social context,” Hemnani stated. “Sindh is setting a national precedent by demonstrating that meaningful health reform is possible through accountability, vision, and public service.”
A Commitment to Every Child
The ultimate goal of these initiatives is to ensure that no child in Sindh is left behind. Hemnani expressed confidence that the province is on the right path to achieving long-term improvements in child and maternal health. By focusing on accessibility, inclusivity, and innovation, the Sindh Government is creating a model that other regions can look to for inspiration.
These efforts reflect a growing commitment to building a resilient and responsive health system that prioritizes the well-being of the youngest members of society. As the province continues to invest in its healthcare infrastructure and community-based programmes, the future looks brighter for children and mothers across Sindh.