Improving Neonatal Care A Global Perspective

Each year, approximately 2.7 million babies die during the neonatal period; more than 90% of these deaths occur in developing countries.Prevention of mortality from the 3 major causes of death (complications of preterm birth, intrapartum-related causes, and sepsis) is possible with the implementation of simple, low-cost interventions, even in countries with limited resources.Mortality may result from a gap in coverage or a gap in quality of essential interventions and services. Both coverage and quality gaps may be amenable to improvement strategies.A variety of international organizations, including the World Health Organization and United Nations Children's Fund, have recommended key indicators of quality and established roadmaps for improving neonatal outcomes.The use of quality improvement methods is not yet part of standard educational training or routine health care delivery in developing countries.