Optimizing the Delivery of Key Maternal and Newborn Interventions through Task Shifting Dr. Salim Sohani, Senior Health Advisor, Canadian Red Cross Ottawa June 7, 2012

Lay Health Workers Perspective from organizations involved in implementing MNCH programs in Countries: –where there is significant shortage of Health human resources –Where essential MNCH services are not readily accessible

Set of interventions under the following broad categories were considered and recommendations made Promotional interventions for maternal and new-born health –Recommended Distribution of oral supplements to pregnant women –recommended with targeted M/E –Low dose aspirin – only in the context of Rigorous research

Interventions by LHWs and recommendations Initiation and maintenance of antiretroviral treatment or antiretroviral prophylaxis for pregnant women and for prevention of HIV infection in infants Recommendations on HIV interventions will be complemented by a comprehensive set of recommendations being prepared by WHO department of HIV/AIDS

Interventions by LHWs and recommendations Continuous support during labour –Recommended to provide social support but not medical care Prevention and treatment of postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) –Recommended –administer misoprostol to prevent PPH Delivery of neonatal resuscitation –Recommended in the context of Rigorous research

Interventions by LHWs and recommendation Management of puerperal sepsis using parenteral antibiotics before referral –Recommended in the context of Rigorous research Initiation and maintenance of kangaroo mother care Recommended in the context of Rigorous research Delivery of antibiotics for neonatal sepsis Recommended in the context of Rigorous research