Using digital communication to improve neonatal health in communities
CHV-NEO: Community-based digital communication to support neonatal health
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · NIH-11035130
This study is testing a new text messaging system to help new moms in Kenya get quick support and advice about their babies' health right after birth, making it easier for them to spot any problems and connect with healthcare workers when they need help.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11035130 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing neonatal health by utilizing community health volunteers (CHVs) who provide essential care and education to mothers and newborns. In Kenya, CHVs conduct regular home visits, but this project introduces an interactive SMS messaging system called Mobile WACh Neo (NEO) to offer on-demand support during the critical early weeks after birth. The system sends daily messages to mothers, helping them recognize danger signs in their newborns and facilitating communication with healthcare workers for timely assistance. This approach aims to bridge the gap between monthly visits and immediate healthcare needs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include mothers of newborns in resource-limited settings, particularly in Kenya.
Not a fit: Patients who are not in the target demographic of mothers with newborns or those outside of the study's geographic focus may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce neonatal mortality by providing timely support and information to mothers.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using digital communication tools to enhance maternal and neonatal health outcomes in similar settings.
Where this research is happening
SEATTLE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON — SEATTLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: RONEN, KESHET — UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON
- Study coordinator: RONEN, KESHET
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.