Creation of a globally informed and locally relevant KMC implementation model for population‐impact in Amhara, Ethiopia

• DOI: 10.1111/apa.16587
• Publication Date: 2022-12-22T05:15:45Z
• Authors: Abebe Gebremariam...; Mulusew Lijalem; Lamesgin Alamineh...; Hajiria Mohammad; Tariku Beyene; Tadesse Biru Meko...; Girma Guadie Abay; Lynn M. Sibley; John N. Cranmer
• Keywords: Kangaroo-Mother Care Method; 03 medical and health sciences; Infant Mortality; Humans; Aftercare; Ethiopia; Child; 0305 other medical science; Patient Discharge; 3. Good health

AbstractAimAs part of a multi‐country implementation trial, we tested a regionally specific model of kangaroo mother care (KMC). Effective KMC was defined as ≥8 h of newborn‐caregiver skin‐to‐skin contact daily plus exclusive breast feeding. The study was designed to achieve ≥80+% effective KMC coverage at the population level.MethodsThe Amhara KMC model was designed using global evidence, formative research in the region and input from government officials, clinicians, newborn families and global scientists. We optimised the initial model using continuous quality improvement with process feedback, outcome measurement and collaborative re‐design. Outcomes from the evaluation period are reported.ResultsAt discharge, the final model resulted in a median of 16 h per day of skin‐to‐skin contact with 63% effective KMC coverage. Fifty‐three percent sustained effective KMC to 7 days post‐discharge.ConclusionsIt is possible to achieve high coverage (63%), high‐quality KMC at public hospitals without prior KMC services using government‐owned, multisectoral collaborative design. Targeted co‐design, real‐time data and customisation of KMC interventions with input from impacted stakeholders was critical in achieving high coverage and sustained quality.