Low-cost strategies for cross-department coordination in labor wards

27 January, 2026

Dear HIFA colleagues,

In Phnom Penh, our obstetrics department has recently piloted a workflow change aimed at improving timely response to labor complications. We established a dedicated rapid-response OB team on-call during peak hours and introduced a clear handoff checklist between teams. We’ve observed earlier intervention for high-risk deliveries and smoother coordination with anesthesia and ICU teams.

I’m curious: In other LMIC settings, what practical approaches have hospitals used to ensure rapid, cross-department communication during obstetric emergencies? Are there low-cost tools or protocols that have worked well for you?

Looking forward to learning from your experiences.

With warm regards,

Dr Suren Kanayan

HIFA profile: Suren Kanayan is the Administrative Manager at Central Hospital in Cambodia. Professional interests: Maternal and Child Health, Obstetrics & Gynecology Clinical Practice, Healthcare System Strengthening in LMICs, Telemedicine and Digital Health Platforms. Email: skan71 AT yahoo.com

Author: 
Suren Kanayan