This program offers dedicated, high-quality antenatal check-ups for all pregnant women in their second and third trimesters, Read More... provided free of cost on the 9th of every month at government health centres. Read less
Details
Ensuring the health of mothers and newborns is a top priority for India. The Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) is a key initiative aimed at providing much-needed support to pregnant women across the country.
Launched on June 9, 2016, by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, PMSMA is designed to offer every pregnant woman in her second or third trimester assured, comprehensive, and quality antenatal care. This care is provided free of cost on a specific day each month, the 9th, at government health facilities. The goal is to standardize maternal healthcare and significantly reduce maternal and infant mortality rates.
This scheme is for all pregnant women in India who are in their 2nd or 3rd trimester. It focuses on ensuring that every expectant mother receives essential medical attention during this crucial period of her pregnancy.
PMSMA plays a vital role in strengthening maternal healthcare. By offering specialized services from experts like gynaecologists, radiologists, and physicians, and ensuring a minimum package of care including essential medicines, it helps identify and manage high-risk pregnancies effectively. The fixed-day approach and free services make it accessible to women from all backgrounds, ensuring no pregnant woman is left behind.
Objective
Benefits
Free diagnostic tests are provided at district hospitals, sub-district hospitals, community health centres, urban primary health centres, and primary health centres. Under the scheme, a total of 266 tests are available completely free of charge.
Sources and references
While the scheme aims for universal access, it's good to carry these documents:
Optional documents might include Bank Account Details for future direct benefit transfers, or your husband's identity proof if local guidelines require it.
When is the best time during my pregnancy to start attending the monthly antenatal check-ups under PMSMA?
You can begin receiving services once you are in your 2nd or 3rd trimester. This means you must have completed your first trimester, which is typically beyond 12 weeks of pregnancy.
If I miss my scheduled monthly visit on the 9th, can I still get antenatal care services later?
The scheme specifically provides services on the 9th of every month (or the next working day if it's a holiday). If you miss your appointment, you should contact the health facility to see if there's a possibility for a makeup session or if you need to wait for the next scheduled date.
What if my pregnancy is identified as high-risk during a check-up? What happens next?
If your pregnancy is deemed high-risk, a special red sticker will be placed on your Mother and Child Protection card. This signifies that you will receive priority attention and follow-up care to ensure your well-being.
Which government health centres offer these specialized antenatal care services?
These essential services are available at a variety of government health facilities. This includes Primary Health Centres (PHCs), Community Health Centres (CHCs), District Hospitals, and urban health facilities, covering both rural and urban areas.
Are there any income limits or specific social categories of women who can or cannot apply for this program?
No, this scheme is designed for universal coverage. It does not have any income, caste, religion, or community-based restrictions. All pregnant women meeting the trimester criteria can access these services free of cost.
How can I find out which is the closest health facility offering PMSMA services using online tools?
You can easily find the nearest facility by visiting the official PMSMA website at https://pmsma.nhp.gov.in/. The website usually has a feature to locate nearby centres. You can also explore the 'Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan' mobile application for this purpose.
What medical tests and screening will I undergo during my monthly visits?
During your monthly visits, you will undergo essential medical investigations and screening procedures as per the standardized protocol for pregnant women in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters. These are provided under a single window system for your convenience.
What medicines and supplements are provided free of charge during these antenatal visits?
You will receive essential supplements like Iron Folic Acid tablets and calcium tablets free of cost. Depending on your medical needs, other necessary medications will also be provided by the facility.
Who are the healthcare professionals that will provide my antenatal care under this scheme?
Your antenatal care will be provided by qualified medical specialists, including Obstetrics and Gynaecology specialists, Radiologists, and Physicians, ensuring you receive expert medical attention.
What is the basic documentation needed when I go to the health facility for my check-up?
Ideally, carry your Mother and Child Protection Card if you have one. Also, bring your Aadhaar Card or any other government-issued identity proof. Previous medical records, if any, will also be helpful.
When was this important maternal health program launched, and which government body is in charge of it?
This scheme was officially launched on June 9, 2016, by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India. It is implemented across states and districts through the National Health Mission.
How does the scheme ensure efficient delivery of tests and medicines to pregnant women?
The program utilizes the principles of a 'single window system'. This means that investigations and medicines are provided in a coordinated and streamlined manner at the health facility, making the process smoother for you.
What if I need assistance or have a complaint regarding the services provided under PMSMA?
For any assistance or to register a complaint, you can reach out through the National Portal at https://pmsma.nhp.gov.in/. You can also call the toll-free number 18001801104 or contact your local District Health Officer or Chief Medical Officer.