Dr. Alpesh Gandhi
Dear Esteemed FOGSIANS,
High risk-Pregnancy and Critical care obstetrics has been a crusade of FOGSI and Health ministry for a long time. Despite notable progress in reducing maternal mortality rates, our country continues to face challenges in ensuring optimal outcomes for all pregnancies, particularly those deemed high-risk due to various factors such as maternal age, pre-existing medical conditions, and pregnancy complications. Today, we are encountering a significant incidence of high-risk pregnancies in India, ranging from 25% -50%
As we navigate the complexities of maternal health care, we have always understood the need to recognize and prioritize the requirements of expectant mothers facing high-risk pregnancies.
High-risk pregnancies present unique challenges that demand specialized care and attention. Numerous factors combined together significantly elevate the risks involved. Without timely identification, proper monitoring and intervention, these pregnancies can pose serious threats to the health of both the mother and her unborn child.
High-risk pregnancy care centers can address these specific needs, advance from normal pregnancy care. However, like every specialized care setting, these centers need to fulfill some basic requirements in order to function at optimal level.
The aim of introducing the A+++ (Assessed, Assured, and Accredited) accreditation for High risk pregnancy care centers is to enhance and refine the facilities and services that they provide, in order to provide the best possible outcome to our high risk patients.
The accreditation is a formalized process that each center can apply for through the website. It is expected that the checklists and algorithms prepared by senior obstetricians, champions in the field with years of experience to be followed in high-risk situations, to optimize output in high-risk situations. We have outlined guidelines for an ideal set up, right from instruments and furniture, medicines and fluids, to choosing the correct staff who possess the expertise and resources necessary to manage complex pregnancies effectively. We also have a separate section dealing with record keeping and documentation. To achieve the accreditation, the center must score at least 80% marks in set-up as well as clinical expertise.
By establishing this A+++ accreditation for our high-risk pregnancy care centers nationwide, we not only prioritize the health and well-being of mothers and babies but also contribute to the overall improvement of national maternal and neonatal health outcomes, aim is to bring MMR < 20 equal to developed countries. Every expectant mother deserves access to quality care that addresses her unique needs and ensures the best possible outcome for her and her child.
We are thankful to all the experts who have graciously provided their time and effort in formulating these checklists, algorithms and set-up guidelines. I urge each one of you to apply for the A+++ accreditation and become part of this movement.
Dr. Alpesh Gandhi
National Convener, FOGSI’s A +++ HRP Care Centre Initiative
Past President, FOGSI
