The KKH-led SingHealth Duke-NUS Maternal and Child Health Research Institute (MCHRI) has launched a first-of-its-kind community midwifery programme in Singapore, to support new families for maternal recovery and infant development.
Under the EMPOWER2 (Enriching Mothers’ Postpartum Outcomes With Education, Research and Resources) programme, KKH midwives and nurses will deliver personalised guidance and care to new parents in the comfort of their homes. The two-year pilot will commence in early 2025 and is expected to benefit 400 postnatal mothers residing in Kallang, Sengkang and Punggol.
Enhancing health literacy and behaviours for positive health outcomes
“The postnatal period – first six weeks following childbirth – is crucial for maternal recovery and infant development, during which mothers experience significant changes as they adapt to the demands of caring for a newborn. It is critical to ensure a seamless transition and support for the ongoing needs of mothers and their newborns as they leave the hospital following childbirth and return home,” shared Ms Julie Tay, Assistant Director of Nursing, Division of Nursing, KKH.
“Through EMPOWER2, we hope to provide support to families in a familiar environment during this ‘golden’ window, to help establish successful breastfeeding, ensure maternal well-being and monitor the infant’s growth and development. The aim is to establish a strong foundation for the long-term health and well-being of both the mother and baby,” added Ms Tay, who leads the programme.
EMPOWER2 support provided to families includes:
Robust support for new mothers in the community
EMPOWER2 will facilitate a smoother transition from hospital to home where families can experience a continuity of care with extended, holistic support in the community. It facilitates optimal care that fosters healthy bonding and sets the stage for good long-term health and development in both the mother and newborn.
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