Pawan Kalyan Initiates Maternal Death Audits in Kakinada District

In a significant move to enhance maternal healthcare, Deputy Chief Minister K. Pawan Kalyan has mandated comprehensive audits of maternal deaths in Kakinada District. This directive aims to ensure that medical personnel provide the highest level of care to pregnant women and newborns, especially during childbirth.

During a video conference held on March 15, 2024, with key officials including Kakinada District Collector Shaun Mohan and PADA Project Director Chaithra, Kalyan emphasized that no negligence should occur at any stage of maternal care. He specifically highlighted the need for meticulous attention from antenatal treatment through to post-delivery care in government hospitals.

The Deputy Chief Minister’s call for audits follows the tragic case of Dondapati Sreedurga, who died due to complications after delivery at Pithapuram Government Hospital. Kalyan expressed profound sorrow over her passing and extended his condolences to her family. He has requested a detailed report concerning the circumstances of Sreedurga’s death and the health status of her newborn.

Kalyan has also ordered an inquiry into the actions of the duty doctor and hospital staff involved in this case. He underscored the necessity for the Pithapuram facility to evolve into a model healthcare center that effectively serves the community’s needs.

In addressing additional concerns, Kalyan expressed dissatisfaction with reports that some hospital staff were engaging in promoting personal beliefs during duty hours. He firmly stated that government hospitals should remain neutral and not serve as venues for such activities.

To improve healthcare services, Kalyan called for ongoing training programs led by experienced professionals aimed at enhancing the skills of both doctors and nursing staff in urban and rural areas. He reiterated that maternal deaths should be treated as serious incidents warranting immediate investigation to identify any lapses and prevent future occurrences.

The video conference included participation from Pidugu Hariprasad, a member of the State Legislative Council, as well as Krishna Teja, the Panchayat Raj commissioner. Their involvement highlights the collaborative effort required to address these critical health issues within the district.

With these measures, the government aims to significantly improve maternal health services and reduce preventable deaths, ensuring that every mother and child receives the care they deserve.