Haryana Boosts Healthcare for Newborns: 19 New Ventilators and Integrated Maternal-Neonatal Care Units

CHANDIGARH: In a major step to strengthen the healthcare infrastructure for critically ill newborns, the Haryana government has announced the addition of 19 new neonatal ventilators in hospitals across the state. This initiative, which will cost approximately ₹7 crore, aims to provide timely, life-saving respiratory support to infants in critical condition.

Upgrading SNCU Capacity

Currently, the state's Special Newborn Care Units (SNCUs) are equipped with 54 neonatal ventilators. With the induction of these 19 new machines, the total number of operational neonatal ventilators in Haryana will increase to 73. This expansion significantly boosts the state's capacity to handle respiratory emergencies in newborns.

Transition to Integrated Maternal-Neonatal Care Units

Beyond physical equipment, the state health department is initiating a statewide policy shift. Dr. Sumita Mishra, Additional Chief Secretary of the Health Department, stated that existing SNCUs are being developed into "Integrated Maternal-Neonatal Care Units."

Key benefits of this initiative include:

• Zero Separation: The primary goal is to prevent the unnecessary separation of hospitalized newborns from their mothers.

• Continuous Care: Ensuring the mother's uninterrupted presence alongside specialized medical treatment.

• Family Involvement: Actively promoting breastfeeding support and encouraging family participation in the newborn's daily care and recovery.

Success Based on Pilot Programs

This statewide rollout is not a blind experiment. The decision to upgrade to Integrated Maternal-Neonatal Care Units is heavily backed by research and practical experience gathered from pilot facilities successfully established in the district hospitals of Ambala City and Kurukshetra.