Launching of the “Updated National Neonatal Protocol” and “National Standards and Specifications for Neonatal Unit Equipment.”
Under the Auspices of His Excellency the Minister of Health Dr. Maged Abu-Ramadan an event was held today to launch the “Updated National Neonatal Protocol” along with the “National Standards and Specifications for Neonatal Unit Equipment.”, prepared by Juzoor for Halth and Social Development in cooperation with the Ministry of Health and UNICEF.
The protocol and the manual are the result of a tripartite partnership between the Ministry of Health, UNICEF, and Juzoor for Health and Social Development. They were developed through the efforts of a group of highly experienced neonatologists, alongside expert biomedical engineers and specialized technicians from various health institutions across the West Bank and Gaza Strip, under the supervision of Dr. Hatem Al-Khamash, Head of the Neonatal Department at Al-Makassed Islamic Charitable Hospital.
The event was attended by a large number of representatives from local and international institutions, as well as governmental, NGO, and private hospitals, including pediatricians, neonatologists, and biomedical engineers.
At the beginning of the event, Dr. Umaiyeh Khammash, Director General of Juzoor delivered a speech highlighting that the development of these national references was the result of a participatory and fruitful effort among experts and specialists from various health sectors, aimed at improving the health and well-being of newborns in Palestine. He also extended his gratitude to all those who contributed to these significant achievements, which strengthen the health system and enhance the quality of healthcare services provided to mothers, children, and families in general.
H.E. Dr. Majed Abu Ramadan, Minister of Health, affirmed the Ministry’s commitment to advancing all health services, stressing the pivotal role of the national protocol and guide in raising the quality of healthcare for preterm and newborn infants. He noted that these efforts align with international best practices and strengthen hospitals’ ability to provide safe and comprehensive services.
Ms. Gene Gough, UNICEF Special Representative in Palestine, expressed her pride in this fruitful partnership, pointing out the urgent need for such guidelines and protocols, particularly in light of the high rates of neonatal mortality. She emphasized that this achievement represents a major step forward in improving maternal and child health.
Dr. Amir Attaounah, Consultant Neonatologist and one of the lead contributors to the development of the national protocol and the national guide for neonatal medical equipment specifications, delivered a presentation on the current situation of neonatal care in Palestine, the existing challenges, and the means to advance services to reduce neonatal mortality and morbidity. Meanwhile, Eng. Majed Wahdan, Head of the Biomedical Engineering Unit, presented the process of developing and standardizing national specifications for medical equipment used in neonatal units.
The sessions were moderated by Dr. Hadeel Al-Masri, Head of the Women’s Health and Development Unit at the Ministry of Health, and included discussions on the importance of advancing services, particularly through strengthening neonatal referral and transportation systems by providing specialized and fully equipped ambulances to ensure the safe transfer of critically ill preterm infants.
Participants emphasized the need to sustain joint efforts and unify actions to ensure the implementation of these national references and translate them into practical measures on the ground, thereby strengthening neonatal care services and reflecting the strong commitment despite the difficult circumstances in Palestine.
