Siwan Health Society, Bihar
Maternal Death Surveillance and Response (MDSR)
Maternal Death Surveillance and Response
The MDSR system is a continuous cycle of identification, notification, and review of maternal deaths followed by actions to improve quality of care and prevent future deaths.
All the maternal deaths reported will be investigated, irrespective of the place of death i.e. at home, in facility or in transit; area of death i.e. rural or urban. Maternal death review process will be undertaken at two levels:
- Community level
- Facility level
In addition, confidential review of cases of maternal deaths occurred at facility will be conducted at state level by the expert members of Committee for Confidential Review (CCR) to review the clinical line of management of cases.
Overview
Maternal Death Surveillance and Response (MDSR) is a strategic approach under the National Health Mission aimed at reducing maternal mortality by identifying, reviewing, and responding to maternal deaths. It focuses on understanding the medical and non-medical causes of maternal deaths and implementing corrective actions to prevent future occurrences.
Objectives of MDSR
- To identify all maternal deaths in the community and health facilities
- To analyze the causes and contributing factors of maternal deaths
- To improve the quality of maternal healthcare services
- To take timely corrective actions to prevent avoidable deaths
- To strengthen health systems and accountability
Key Components
1. Identification & Notification
All maternal deaths are reported from both community and facility levels within a defined time frame.
2. Maternal Death Review
- Facility-Based Review (FBR): Conducted at hospitals
- Community-Based Review (CBR): Conducted at household level
- Confidential Review: In-depth analysis without assigning blame
3. Data Analysis
Collected data is analyzed to identify trends, delays, and gaps in healthcare services.
4. Response & Action
Based on findings, necessary actions are taken such as:
- Improving referral systems
- Training healthcare staff
- Strengthening infrastructure
- Enhancing community awareness
Types of Delays (Three Delays Model)
MDSR focuses on addressing the following delays:
- Delay in deciding to seek care
- Delay in reaching a healthcare facility
- Delay in receiving adequate care at the facility
Importance of MDSR
- Helps in reducing Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR)
- Improves quality of maternal healthcare services
- Strengthens accountability in health systems
- Supports evidence-based policy decisions
Implementation Strategy
MDSR is implemented at multiple levels:
- Community Level – ASHA, ANM reporting
- Block & District Level – Review committees analyze cases
- State Level – Policy and monitoring
- National Level – Guidelines and evaluation
Expected Outcomes
- Reduction in preventable maternal deaths
- Improved maternal healthcare services
- Strengthened health system response
- Increased community awareness
Conclusion
Maternal Death Surveillance and Response (MDSR) is a crucial initiative that not only tracks maternal deaths but also ensures that lessons are learned and actions are taken. By focusing on accountability and continuous improvement, MDSR plays a vital role in achieving safer motherhood and better healthcare outcomes.