Limpopo Premier calls for stronger response to postpartum haemorrhage
POLOKWANE: Limpopo Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba have called for stronger collaboration across the healthcare system to prevent maternal deaths caused by postpartum haemorrhage.
Speaking at a symposium on postpartum haemorrhage, Ramathuba stressed that the condition can rapidly become life-threatening if it is not recognised and treated promptly.
The symposium brought together clinicians, healthcare managers, researchers, administrators and policymakers to discuss ways of strengthening the province’s response to maternal emergencies.
The Premier said saving mothers requires the entire chain of care to function effectively, including early diagnosis, access to blood and blood products, functioning theatres, emergency transport, referral systems, skilled personnel and effective communication.
“Break the silos and strengthen the chain,” was the central call, with healthcare professionals urged to work together rather than treating maternal deaths as the responsibility of an individual clinician or facility.
Ramathuba also called for lessons to be drawn from maternal deaths and near-miss cases through clinical audits and maternal death reviews.
She said the success of the symposium should ultimately be measured by changes implemented in hospitals and clinics.
“A woman who comes into our care to give life must have every reasonable chance of returning home safely to her family,” the Premier said.
