On March 9, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) handed over to the Ministry of Health of Uzbekistan more than 50 thousand copies of a manual and a pocket guide on the universal progressive model of patronage (home visiting).
According to the UNICEF office, the publications are aimed at improving services for pregnant women, women in childbirth and children under 5 years of age at the primary health care level, where the population receives basic health services such as vaccinations, antenatal services and treatment of diseases.
The materials were developed based on evidence-based international guidelines and standards for early childhood development, nutrition and psychosocial support. They serve as a guide to improve the professional knowledge and skills of visiting nurses.
The study found that home visiting programs can improve positive parenting and improve the health and well-being of both parents and children.
“The Integrated Family Services package is a transformational model and has tremendous potential to provide home-based services for families. The health care system is the most natural starting point, having the greatest connection and access to families, pregnant women and young children in both urban and rural areas, including remote areas,” said UNICEF Uzbekistan Country Manager Munir Mammadzade.
“Home visiting programs are key and important in providing personalized care, helping families and communities in immediate need, supporting and empowering parents and guardians to create the best possible environment for their children,” he underscored.
UNICEF noted that the development and publication of a guide and handbook is the first step in the implementation of a universally progressive model of patronage service. Now the fund, in cooperation with the Ministry of Health, is preparing a team of trainers who will train all nurses in the new method.
The new model will also be introduced into the system of undergraduate and professional development of nurses. The result is expected to improve the quality of health care and provide support and care for families in need.
