Abu Dhabi DoH launches integrated Postnatal Care Programme with telemedicine and home visits

Giving birth is no walk in the park — but what comes after might be even tougher. New mothers juggle physical recovery, sleepless nights, and a whirlwind of emotions. Yet, too often, postnatal care gets pushed to the sidelines. That's why the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi (DoH) is stepping up with a bold new initiative: the Integrated Postnatal Care Programme.

In the words of H.E. Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the DoH: "The postpartum period is one of the most physically and emotionally challenging times in a woman's life — and yet, one of the most overlooked."

With this programme, Abu Dhabi isn't just ticking boxes — it's reimagining how to care for mothers and newborns in those critical first weeks.

How does it work?

Here's the gist: the programme blends tech with a human touch, wrapping new mothers in a blanket of support that actually follows them home.

• Telemedicine check-ins happen in the first few days after discharge, offering expert eyes and ears without the car ride.
• Home visits are part of the package — especially for mothers recovering from complicated births or caring for babies with health concerns.
• Outpatient appointments are scheduled at key milestones: once between 7-14 days, and again at 6 weeks postpartum.

For moms who need a little extra TLC:

• Two home visits are conducted — one shortly after discharge, another between the 7-14 day window.
• These are led by qualified nurses or midwives, ready to spot red flags, answer questions, and offer guidance that's personalized, not one-size-fits-all.

The mix of digital and in-person care aims to catch issues early, offer peace of mind, and lighten the emotional load.

Why does it matter?

Because no woman should feel like she's navigating early motherhood alone.

The postpartum period is often described as "fourth trimester" — and it's just as crucial as the pregnancy itself. Depression, physical complications, breastfeeding challenges, sleep deprivation — it's a perfect storm if left unsupported. Abu Dhabi's approach says loud and clear: we see you, we've got you.

Dr. Al Ghaithi nailed it: "We're delivering a comprehensive support system that extends beyond hospital walls."

This programme is more than a checklist — it's a lifeline. By addressing the unique needs of each mother, it empowers women to focus on healing, bonding, and building confidence.

The context

Abu Dhabi isn't new to health innovation — it's been quietly setting the bar across the region, and sometimes, globally. The Integrated Postnatal Care Programme is another feather in its cap, part of a broader push under the Women's and Children's Health Strategy.

In a landscape where too many health systems still treat postnatal care as an afterthought, Abu Dhabi is flipping the script. It's saying, "We're not just here for the birth — we're here for the whole journey."

This move cements the Emirate's reputation as a leader in accessible, forward-thinking healthcare. And let's face it — when mothers thrive, society thrives.

So, here's to every new mom getting the care she deserves — and every newborn getting a stronger, healthier start.