At Midwives @ the Edges, we are committed to bridging critical gaps in maternal and newborn healthcare in some of the world's most challenging environments. In close collaboration with local health departments throughout the Middle East, we are rolling out comprehensive Helping Mothers and Babies Survive (HMBS) training programs specifically tailored for maternity wards and Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) in under-resourced government hospitals. These programs are meticulously designed based on evidence-based recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO), addressing the leading causes of maternal and newborn mortality and morbidity—such as postpartum hemorrhage, birth asphyxia, and infections—that claim millions of lives annually worldwide.
Our HMBS initiative goes beyond traditional training; it's a holistic approach to building resilient healthcare systems. Key components include:
Providing Training and Follow-Up for Hospital Staff: We offer intensive, hands-on workshops led by experienced midwives and healthcare experts. These sessions equip nurses, doctors, and support staff with essential skills in emergency obstetric care, newborn resuscitation, and infection prevention. To ensure long-term retention and application, we provide ongoing mentorship and follow-up visits, allowing teams to refine their practices and adapt to real-world challenges in their facilities.
Equipping and Raising Up National Leaders in the Healthcare System: A core pillar of our work is fostering local leadership. We identify and train promising healthcare professionals to become master trainers themselves, creating a ripple effect where knowledge is disseminated nationally. By investing in these leaders, we empower them with the tools, confidence, and resources needed to drive systemic change, from policy advocacy to community outreach, ensuring that improvements extend far beyond individual hospitals.
Ensuring Hospitals Have the Equipment Needed to Implement Training: Knowledge alone isn't enough—practical implementation requires the right tools. We assess each hospital's needs and supply vital equipment, such as resuscitation kits, clean birth supplies, and monitoring devices. This not only enables immediate application of HMBS protocols but also promotes sustainability, reducing dependency on external aid and enhancing the overall quality of care.
Through this project, Midwives @ the Edges is not just responding to immediate crises but laying the foundation for enduring health equity. By focusing on under-resourced areas in the Middle East, where access to quality maternal and newborn services is often limited by economic, geographic, or infrastructural barriers, we aim to save lives and strengthen communities. Our efforts align with global sustainable development goals, contributing to a future where every mother and baby has the chance to thrive. Join us in this vital mission—your support can make a profound difference.
