This report presents the findings from a pilot implementation of Family-Centered Care (FCC) in five healthcare facilities across Bangladesh from 2022-2025, conducted under Save the Children’s Saving Women and Premature Babies (SWAP) project. The FCC model empowers parents and caregivers to actively participate in the care of hospitalized newborns through structured training sessions covering essential topics like hygiene, breastfeeding, Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC), and danger sign recognition.
The pilot was implemented across diverse facilities including Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, MR Khan Shishu Hospital, Mohammadpur Fertility Services & Training Centre, Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital, and Lakshmipur Sadar Hospital. Over 660 training sessions were conducted with parents and caregivers, supported by a cascade training approach that prepared 183 healthcare providers as facilitators. The program developed culturally appropriate training materials in collaboration with Bangladesh’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
Evaluation results demonstrate significant improvements in caregiver knowledge and confidence. Most notably, hygiene knowledge increased by 83% (from 15% to 98%), KMC understanding rose by 78% (from 6% to 84%), and danger sign recognition improved from 24% to 73%. Caregivers reported increased confidence in caring for their newborns and better preparedness for home care after discharge. Healthcare providers and facility managers noted improved service quality, reduced nurse workload, and stronger mother-baby bonding.
The report identifies key implementation challenges including limited space, staff shortages, short hospital stays, and the need for greater family involvement beyond mothers. Recommendations include expanding training to additional family members, providing more comfortable training environments, and scaling the approach to other healthcare facilities as Bangladesh works toward achieving its Sustainable Development Goals for newborn health.RetryClaude can make mistakes. Please double-check responses.
