Outcomes of a novel mentorship approach tested in two regions of Madagascar

Summary

Herein presented are selected results from an implementation study of a novel mentor support approach—in-situ realistic postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) simulations enhanced with a digital tool, Virtual Mentor—conducted in two regions of Madagascar between October and December 2020. Fifteen experienced health care workers and senior Madagascar Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) staff agreed to act as mentors for this project, in addition to their regular work. We trained these mentors to facilitate simulated PPH scenarios during 4 visits to 20 frontline health facilities so that birth care providers could practice correct clinical management within their own clinics in realistic but safe conditions. A patient actress played the part of the birthing woman and simulation materials we provided ensured the PPH simulations were realistic. We also provided a hands-free, French-language chatbot, the “Virtual Mentor,” and trained the providers to talk to this chatbot while they practice the optimal management of common causes of PPH and plan of care for a woman in danger from excessive blood loss. The algorithm guiding the chatbot’s conversation flow is defined by national and global (World Health Organization) standards for PPH management.