Strengthening Maternal Referrals in Urban Health Systems
Oct 22 2026 / Posted in
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This policy brief explores how SNEHA’s partnership with municipal corporations in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) has strengthened maternal referral systems. It highlights the importance of ensuring that women experiencing pregnancy-related complications reach the right healthcare facility in time and receive appropriate medical care.
The intervention introduced formal referral pathways, standardised referral documentation, communication between healthcare facilities and regular monitoring. Between 2016 and 2023, the proportion of referred women confirmed to have reached their designated referral facility increased from 48% to 81%, demonstrating improvements in referral coordination and continuity of care.
The brief recommends strengthening referral networks, improving communication and feedback between facilities, clarifying staff responsibilities and integrating referral monitoring into routine health systems. It emphasises the need for flexible referral arrangements and sustained collaboration to improve access to timely, quality maternal healthcare.
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