Mothers remain at risk even in tertiary hospitals
Summary
Mothers continue to face preventable risks even in tertiary hospitals in Nepal, where complications, delayed referrals and shortages of specialists and critical care remain common. Experts say stronger referral systems, better staffing and more investment in specialized care are needed to reduce maternal and neonatal deaths.
Key Points
- A woman died at Paropakar Maternity and Women’s Hospital in Kathmandu after collapsing following childbirth, prompting allegations of negligence from her family.
- Doctors say tertiary hospitals across Nepal still lack enough specialists, staff and advanced equipment to manage critical maternal complications.
- Nearly three out of four maternal deaths in Nepal occur in health facilities or during transport, according to a recent Ministry of Health and Food Safety study.
- Health experts say further reductions in maternal mortality will require stronger referral systems, specialized care and greater political will.
