Neonatal transferal – Needs, challenges and successes

India contributes to 30% of global neonatal deaths. Well organized neonatal transport system is central to reduction of neonatal mortality and optimum utilization of neonatal services in the country. Optimal neonatal transferal poses multiple challenges including availability of adequate personnel, beds, neonatal care units, prioritization under public health program and suitable guidelines. Sparks of success centered around neonatal transferal include recent public health programs, concept of comprehensive newborn care, setting up of Special Care Neonatal Units, use of neonatal ambulances, establishment of call centre for neonatal transport, availability of simplified tool for assessment of severity of neonatal illness, and availability of guidelines for neonatal transferal.