Authors
Yogita Thakral, Ashmita Gulechha, Sanjana Brahmawar Mohan, Pavitra Mohan
Published in
BMJ paediatrics open. Volume 10. Issue 1. Sep 03, 2026. Epub Sep 03, 2026.
Abstract
Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) reduces morbidity and mortality among preterm and low birth weight infants, yet continuity between facility initiation and home practice remains weak in rural settings. This study examined a facility-community circle of care model in a primary care setting in southern Rajasthan, India.
In a primary health centre (PHC) managed as a public-private partnership in rural south Rajasthan, India, we trained and supported the PHC facility-based team to initiate KMC for all low birth weight babies at birth, and the outreach team to continue KMC at household levels. Both teams educated and supported mothers and family members to provide and sustain KMC for the babies.We reviewed the programme and supervisory data of a 3-year period (2021-2024) following the KMC introduction to estimate key indicators of its coverage and effectiveness. We also conducted semi-structured interviews with the team members to understand and document the process of introduction.
Among 1188 live births, 34% were low birth weight. Facility KMC coverage rose from 60% to 88%, and 52% of dyads continued KMC at home. Exclusive breastfeeding reached 98%, mean skin-to-skin contact averaged 9 hours daily and infant survival was 99%. The circle of care strengthened continuity, trust and workforce capability.
Embedding KMC within a coordinated, mentorship-supported circle of care provides a scalable systems approach to enhancing newborn outcomes and primary care in rural and tribal settings.
PMID:
42692798
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 04 Sep 2026.
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