From September 16 to 18, 2019, orientation training for deputy heads of the Regional Health Departments and chief physicians of primary health care (PHC) medical organizations was held at the Scientific Center of Pediatrics and Children’s Surgery JSC on the basis of the topic: “A universally progressive model of patronage visits for pregnant women and young children” . For the behavior of the training, the national trainer of the UN Children's Fund UNICEF was invited, associate professor of the Department of Childhood Diseases of Kazakh Medical University of Continuing Education JSC Kim Natalya Georgievna.

During the training, specialists were given the basics of management for the transition to a universally progressive model of patronage visits with the aim of improving the health status, psychosocial functioning and living conditions of pregnant women and young children by establishing partnerships and supporting families in the interests of health, development and protection of children in Kazakhstan. Regional experts provided examples from their experience working with the public. Participants of the training were given the opportunity to apply practical skills when working with pregnant women and families with young children (counseling, identifying depression, communication skills, children developing skills, fostering attachment, etc.).

So, on the basis of City Cardiology Clinic of Polyvinyl chloride “Polyclinic No. 29” of the Health Department Almaty, a practical lesson was held about counseling pregnant women and home visits to 12 families with young children. The results of patronage visits were discussed by the training participants with the subsequent development of an action plan for a progressive package of patronage services.

The introduction of a universally progressive model of patronage visits for pregnant women and young children throughout the country will reduce infant mortality of controlled causes, increase the number of children who are exclusively breastfed, increase immunization coverage, and most importantly, live in a country where every pregnancy is desired, every birth is celebrated, children grow, thrive and realize their full potential!