WHO launches Mozambique antenatal care programme

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has launched a programme aimed at improving the quality of antenatal care in Mozambique.

A streamlined approach to healthcare means that pregnant women only have to visit a single clinic which receives packages with all necessary medicines and lab supplies.

The first clinic was opened at the beginning of June, and WHO plans to increase that figure to ten by the end of next year.

According to Dr Ana Pilar Betrán, WHO medical officer, if the initiative proves successful it will be rolled out across the country.

WHO says that women using the service are developing a better awareness of the importance of seeing health professionals and seeking support during pregnancy.

Prior to the initiative, the organisation says that women were turned away from some clinics during their first trimester due to a shortage of resources. As a result many missed out on key tests.

On other occasions, women would not be able to pick up their test results because of a lack of transport.