The Sultanate of Oman is reinforcing its commitment to maternal and child health with the recent launch of a National Guide for the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) in primary healthcare institutions. This significant step, announced today by the Ministry of Health, aims to extend crucial breastfeeding support beyond hospital walls and into the community, ensuring a continuum of care for mothers and their infants. The initiative underscores Oman’s dedication to improving health indicators and achieving sustainable development goals.
Expanding the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative to Primary Healthcare
This launch represents the second phase of Oman’s revitalized BFHI program. While the initial phase focused on hospitals, this new national guide specifically addresses the role of primary healthcare facilities in supporting and promoting breastfeeding. The goal is to create a seamlessly integrated system where mothers receive consistent guidance and assistance throughout their pregnancy, childbirth, and the early months of their baby’s life. This integration is vital for maximizing the benefits of breastfeeding for both mother and child.
The Importance of Continuity of Care
Dr. Sami bin Suleiman Al Farsi, Director of the Maternal and Child Health Center at the Ministry of Health, emphasized the foundational role of breastfeeding in a child’s well-being. He highlighted its proven benefits, including enhanced immunity, optimal growth, and protection against various illnesses. Furthermore, he noted the positive impact on maternal health, both physically and mentally. Primary healthcare institutions, as the first point of contact for many families, are uniquely positioned to provide essential awareness, counseling, and ongoing support.
The newly released national guide is designed to be a comprehensive resource, offering a unified and scientifically sound approach to breastfeeding support. It will empower healthcare professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to deliver consistent, high-quality care, aligning with best practices and international standards. This standardization is crucial for ensuring all mothers in Oman have access to the same level of support, regardless of their location or healthcare provider.
A Legacy of Commitment: Oman and the BFHI
Oman’s involvement with the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative dates back to 1992, making it one of the earliest adopters of this globally recognized program. At that time, all of the country’s hospitals achieved international accreditation, a testament to its initial dedication. While maintaining this status until 1999, a renewed focus on revitalizing the initiative became apparent in recent years.
Recognizing the need to re-establish and strengthen its commitment, the Department of Nutrition launched a comprehensive national plan in 2020. Phase One (2020-2023) involved a thorough review of hospital practices, the introduction of a national policy, and specialized training for evaluation teams, supported by UNICEF. This resulted in several hospitals successfully regaining “Baby-Friendly” status, paving the way for the current expansion into primary healthcare.
Training and Collaboration for Successful Implementation
To facilitate the effective implementation of the national guide, the Ministry of Health organized an intensive training workshop for approximately 170 healthcare workers. The workshop covered all aspects of the guide, including potential challenges, assessment procedures for accreditation, and tools for evaluating the knowledge and skills of healthcare professionals in providing breastfeeding support.
This collaborative effort involved key stakeholders, including representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, as well as general managers, directors of primary healthcare and hospitals, and members of the national evaluation team. Notably, Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) partnered with the Ministry of Health to support the workshop, demonstrating a broader commitment to community health and well-being. This partnership highlights the importance of cross-sectoral collaboration in achieving national health goals.
Looking Ahead: Improving Maternal and Child Health in Oman
The launch of this National Guide for the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative is a significant milestone in Oman’s ongoing efforts to improve the health of mothers and children. By extending support to primary healthcare institutions, the Ministry of Health is ensuring that breastfeeding is promoted and protected throughout the entire continuum of care. This proactive approach will undoubtedly contribute to improved health outcomes, a stronger healthcare system, and a brighter future for families across the Sultanate of Oman. Continued monitoring, evaluation, and adaptation of the program will be essential to ensure its long-term success and impact on maternal and child health.
To learn more about the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative and its benefits, please visit the WHO and UNICEF websites. We encourage healthcare professionals to familiarize themselves with the new national guide and actively participate in ongoing training opportunities.
