This scheme offers dedicated, comprehensive, and quality antenatal check-ups every month for pregnant women in their second Read More... and third trimesters, completely free of cost at government health centres. Read less
Details
Good news for expecting mothers across India! The government has a special program designed to ensure you receive the best possible care during your pregnancy. It's called the Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan.
The Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) is a healthcare initiative launched by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. Its main goal is to provide every pregnant woman in India with top-notch antenatal care. This care is available on a fixed day every month to make it easy for women to access it regularly.
This scheme is for all pregnant women who are in their second or third trimester of pregnancy. It's also especially helpful for those who might have missed regular check-ups or are identified as having a high-risk pregnancy.
Ensuring healthy pregnancies and safe deliveries is a top priority. This Abhiyan helps reduce maternal and infant deaths by providing timely, standardized, and comprehensive medical attention. It ensures that even in remote areas, expecting mothers get access to specialist care and essential medicines without any financial burden.
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
The application process is straightforward and designed for easy access:
The scheme is implemented through the National Health Mission at state and district levels.
When you visit the health facility, it's good to have these documents with you:
For registration purposes, you might also be asked for:
Optional documents like bank account details might be requested if direct benefit transfer is applicable in the future, or husband's identity proof as per local guidelines.
What is the specific date each month when I can receive free antenatal care services under this maternal health program?
You can receive comprehensive antenatal care services on the 9th of every month at designated government health facilities, or the next working day if the 9th falls on a Sunday or a public holiday.
At what stage of my pregnancy can I start accessing the comprehensive antenatal care services provided under this national maternal health initiative?
You can access services if you are in your 2nd or 3rd trimester of pregnancy, which means you must have completed the first trimester (i.e., beyond 12 weeks of gestation).
What type of medical specialists will provide antenatal care services to me when I visit the designated health facility on the scheduled day?
You will receive care from Obstetrics and Gynaecology specialists, Radiologists, and Physicians as part of the comprehensive antenatal care package at government health facilities.
How can I find the nearest health facility participating in this monthly antenatal care program using digital tools?
You can visit https://pmsma.nhp.gov.in/ or download the 'Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan' mobile application. There's usually a feature to help you find your nearest facility.
What essential medicines and supplements will I receive free of cost during my monthly antenatal care visits under this program?
You will receive Iron Folic Acid tablets, calcium supplements, and other necessary medications free of cost from the facility pharmacy as per the medical advice you receive.
Are there any income or social criteria that would prevent me from accessing these monthly antenatal care services at government health facilities?
No, this scheme provides universal coverage. Services are available to all pregnant women free of cost, regardless of their income, caste, religion, or community background.
What happens if healthcare providers identify my pregnancy as high-risk during the antenatal care examination under this monthly health program?
If your pregnancy is identified as high-risk, a red sticker will be placed on your Mother and Child Protection card. You will receive priority attention and specific follow-up instructions for continued care.
What is the minimum documentation required for me to register and receive antenatal care services at the designated health facility?
You generally need your Mother and Child Protection Card (if available), Aadhaar Card or any government-issued identity proof, and previous medical records (if any). The focus is on ensuring universal access with minimal documentation.
When was this national maternal health program launched, and which government ministry is responsible for its implementation?
The scheme was launched on 9th June 2016 by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India. It is implemented through the National Health Mission at the state and district levels.
What types of government health facilities participate in providing these monthly antenatal care services under this comprehensive maternal health initiative?
Services are provided at various government health facilities including Primary Health Centres (PHCs), Community Health Centres (CHCs), District Hospitals, and urban health facilities, covering both urban and rural areas.
What specific medical investigations and screening procedures will be conducted during my monthly antenatal care visits under this standardized healthcare program?
Required medical investigations, tests, and screening procedures will be conducted as per the standardized protocol for 2nd and 3rd trimester pregnant women. These are managed efficiently under the single window system.
How can I access help or support if I face any issues or have complaints regarding the antenatal care services provided under this program?
You can contact the National Portal at https://pmsma.nhp.gov.in/, call the toll-free number 18001801104, or reach out to your District Health Officer or Chief Medical Officer for assistance.
What happens if I miss my scheduled monthly visit on the 9th, and can I still receive antenatal care services later in the month?
While the services are specifically provided on the 9th of every month (or the next working day), it's best to contact your health facility to inquire about any makeup arrangements or to confirm the next available date for your check-up.
What system is used to ensure efficient delivery of investigations and medicines during my antenatal care visits at the designated health facilities?
The program uses the principles of a 'single window system' for providing investigations and medicines. This ensures streamlined and efficient service delivery to all pregnant women attending the clinics.