As it prepares to become the first Indian state to fully digitize reproductive and child health (RCH) services, Rajasthan is about to make history. The National Health Mission-Rajasthan and the renowned Johns Hopkins Programme for International Education in Gynaecology and Obstetrics (Jhpiego) have strategically partnered to strengthen this ground-breaking success. By integrating real-time monitoring of RCH services, their joint endeavor hopes to revolutionize healthcare services.
The digitization of RCH services, particularly those related to pregnant mothers and newborn children, is the main goal of this massive project. The National Health Mission-Rajasthan and Jhpiego signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that primarily focuses on maternal health services and digitized clinical treatment in hospitals with heavy patient loads.
This transformational project's first phase will be conducted in a few districts, including Bundi, Karauli, and Udaipur. A crucial component of their toolset will be the digital gadgets that will be provided to auxiliary nurse midwives (ANMs) in this situation. They will be able to directly enter health reports and pertinent information into the PCTS using these gadgets and their mobile phones. By streamlining the process, the delays brought on by manual procedures are removed, guaranteeing the real-time gathering of vital health data.
This collaboration will facilitate the seamless updating of critical data within the Pregnancy, Child Tracking, and Health Services Management System (PCTS). The PCTS will become a central hub for managing and tracking health-related information pertaining to pregnant women and children.Shubhra Singh, the Additional Chief Secretary (Medical & Health)
Pregnant women will have easy access to testing facilities that are close to their homes every Thursday as part of this progressive effort, which has been dubbed "Safe Motherhood Day." This arrangement intends to improve expectant moms' access to and convenience with necessary healthcare services.
The striking decrease in the state's maternal mortality ratio serves to highlight the importance of these developments. The maternal death ratio in Rajasthan fell from 255 per one lakh live births to an amazing 113 in the short period of time between 2012–14 and 2018–20. This extraordinary drop stands out as the nation's fastest rate of progress. Experts credit the introduction of cutting-edge therapies in reproductive and child health services for this optimistic trend.
Rajasthan is setting a shining example for other states and countries to follow as it forges ahead with embracing a digital future for healthcare. In addition to demonstrating the potential of digital solutions in improving healthcare, the relationship between the National Health Mission-Rajasthan and Jhpiego also exemplifies the value of cooperation between international health agencies and regional programs.
(Input from various media sources.)
(Rehash/Dr. Nithin G N)