What We Do
Implementation literature including a 2021 GiveWell analysis identifies three key barriers preventing widespread effective KC coverage:
1
1
Resource Gaps
Limited equipment and inadequate staff training hinder effective KC delivery.
Limited equipment and inadequate staff training hinder effective KC delivery.
2
2
Data Gaps
Patchy monitoring and evaluation systems limit evidence generation which holds back buy-in and funding.
Patchy monitoring and evaluation systems limit evidence generation which holds back buy-in and funding.
3
3
Scaling Inertia
Limited policy integration and weak supply chains prevent system-wide coverage.
Limited policy integration and weak supply chains prevent system-wide coverage.
Resource Gaps
We repurpose space in hospitals, equipping them with KC supplies and monitoring tools which we procure. Each site receives dedicated, trained KC nurses, as well as program coordinators to create centres where every mother gets support.
Data Gaps
Our M&E coordinators collect real-time data to drive rapid program optimisation, generating local contextual evidence that justifies hospital buy-in and government adoption.
Scale Gaps
We continuously refine a data-backed implementation blueprint co-designed with local stakeholders to de-risk and facilitate government adoption and overcome bottlenecks to scaling. We work with governments to practically enforce KC over time.
We overcome these 3 barriers to bridge the gap between practice and policy. Our aim is to sustainably embed capacity for effective KC into the healthcare system to make it the standard of care for newborns in practice.
Cost-Effectiveness
First Embrace could save newborn lives at a cost comparable to GiveWell's most effective global health charities.
This stems from our lean approach and KC's simplicity: no expensive equipment, no complex infrastructure, just evidence-based care protocols, simple equipment and trained staff rigorously monitoring and evaluating the program.
This stems from our lean approach and KC's simplicity: no expensive equipment, no complex infrastructure, just evidence-based care protocols, simple equipment and trained staff rigorously monitoring and evaluating the program.
Operational Efficiency
Our model achieves efficiency through strategic design. We maximise the impact of our resources By embedding dedicated staff within existing hospital infrastructure and repurposing existing space . Equipment costs are minimal and most investment is directed towards training and personnel. Digital M&E systems minimise administrative overhead whilst maximising data value.
Evidence for Scale
Beyond immediate lives saved, our rigorous data collection generates the cost-effectiveness evidence that unlocks sustainable funding. Government health budgets require robust, context-specific proof before system-wide adoption. Our Year 1 pilot produces precisely this evidence, de-risking the transition from donor-funded pilot to government-integrated national programme.
Data Led Approach
From bedside to dashboards, our digital app generates over 500 data points per caregiver-baby pair throughout their KC journey. This granular data flows into real-time dashboards that visualise outcome data and other key metrics.
Care Fidelity Tracking
Monitor quality of KC including continuous skin-to-skin contact, feeding frequency, and maternal support provision.
Optimisation
Leverage real-time data to refine workflows. Daily analysis enables proactive risk detection, with insights applied weekly to ensure effective ward operation.
Outcome Measurement
Track survival rates, weight gain, infection rates, and discharge readiness against comparison facilities.
Staff Performance
Assess nursing competency, identify training needs, and celebrate excellence through objective metrics. Facilitate performance management assessments.
Evidence Generation
Comparative analysis with non-KC hospitals allows precise measurement of counterfactual impact and cost-effectiveness. Raw data shared with all stakeholders.
Government Partnership
Generate robust, evidence-backed KC implementation blueprint to support ministerial partnerships and commitments to system-wide adoption for national scale.