Kangaroo Mother Care - MCHIP

CHAPTER 2: INTRODUCTION AND EXPANSION
OF KANGAROO MOTHER CARE SERVICES
2.1 PREPARATION
In any country, the successful introduction and expansion of KMC services requires thorough
preparation. Introducing KMC services in a limited number of facilities can be achieved without
extensive resources. However, the best way to achieve a reduction in newborn mortality is to
scale up KMC services nationwide, ensuring that all LBW babies have access to the care needed
to improve survival. KMC is a simple, low-cost technology, but including the services as part of
a national strategy to reduce neonatal mortality is not an easy endeavor. The introduction of
national-level KMC services requires extensive planning, sufficient resources and, most
importantly, a paradigm shift in both national policy and care of LBW babies.
A number of obstacles may be encountered during the introduction and expansion of services.
Key obstacles include:
Knowledge: Medical professionals, managers, policymakers and the public have no knowledge
of the benefits of KMC.
Policy: Policies and guidelines for addressing the care of LBW and preterm babies do not exist.
Resources: There are no resources for:
Development or adaptation of KMC training materials and job aids
Implementation of KMC at the facility (arrange space, furniture, equipment,
supplies)
Support staff training
Supervision of KMC services in facilities
Follow-up visits and support in communities after mothers and babies are
discharged
2.2 STEPS FOR NATIONAL-LEVEL KANGAROO MOTHER CARE PROGRAM
DESIGN
Knowledge, policy and resource barriers must be addressed during the design phase. These
obstacles are best addressed through a national review and dialogue led by a multidisciplinary
team. This team should continually engage a variety of stakeholders—including
medical professionals, policymakers, ministries of health and planning/finance, civil society
groups, etc.—in a participatory and open process.
Key steps during the national-level design phase:
1. Conduct a situational analysis of LBW babies.
2. Convene a stakeholders’ meeting to discuss findings.
3. Visit functioning KMC sites in-country or abroad.
4. Develop a plan of action or next steps for the adoption of KMC by national policy, curricula,
service delivery, etc. (Discussed in depth in Chapter 8.)
Kangaroo Mother Care Implementation Guide 9