LSPHCB, CIHP COLLABORATE ON MATERNAL, ADOLESCENT HEALTHCARE
The Lagos State Primary Health Care Board (LSPHCB) has partnered with the Centre for Integrated Health Programmes (CIHP) to enhance healthcare services for mothers and adolescents in Lagos State.
Speaking at two-day workshop focused on revising the expanded Group Antenatal Care (G-ANC) and Post Natal Care (PNC) model, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Ibrahim Akinwunmi Mustafa informed that the Group Antenatal Care (G-ANC) is a well tested model designed to improve the experience of Antenatal care in heath facilities.
The Permanent Secretary, who was represented by Dr. Veronica Iwayemi, the Programme Manager for State Emergency Maternal and Child Health Intervention Centre (SEMCHIC-RN) further noted that the collaboration which is all inclusive will further strengthen the health care system and improve delivery of high impact reproductive health interventions.
He explained that the G-ANC is a client-centred approach grouping pregnant women with similar needs for joint care. The model has been linked to better attendance, satisfaction, and health outcomes for mothers and newborns amongst other numerous benefits.
He highlighted educating expectant fathers on the importance of antenatal care and their role in supporting mothers. Additionally, the G-ANC Manual will cater to teen mothers’ hospitals.
In her welcome address, the CEO, Centre for Integrated Health Programmes, Dr. Bola Oyeledun noted that the G-ANC project is not new in Lagos State since it actually kicked off in the State in 2022, however, there was a need to upgrade and upscale the programme for a more beneficial outcome hence the need for the review of the manual.
Whilst appreciating the State Government for a respectful partnership, Dr. Oyeledun said that the Centre would continue to offer technical support and assistance in other areas of health such as RMNCAH+N, prevention of mother to child transmission for HIV, Capacity building for human resources for health workers amongst others.
This programme is planned for implementation in 240 Primary Healthcare Centres and 20 secondary centres across all 20 Local Government Areas in Lagos State and areas of expansion including Group Post Natal Care (PNC), Adolescent Healthcare Services and Inclusion of men in supporting maternal health