Bangladesh Government to Offer Tk. 2,000 to Pregnant Women Under the Maternal Health Voucher Scheme

Bangladesh is a densely populated country with low access to health and educational services. In order to increase access to maternal health services and improve maternal and neonatal health outcomes, the Government of Bangladesh launched Maternal Health Voucher Scheme (MHVS). In this article, we will discuss what the Maternal Health Voucher Scheme is, what are its objectives, the eligibility criteria for the MHVS and the benefits of the scheme.

What is Maternal Health Voucher Scheme in Bangladesh?

Maternal Health Voucher Scheme (MHVS) is a national scheme in which the government of Bangladesh offers financial assistance of Tk. 2,000 to pregnant women to improve maternal and neonatal health outcomes. This scheme was first launched in 2006. Under the scheme, pregnant women are offered vouchers that can be exchanged for health services from eligible public and private sector providers.

What is the objective of the Maternal Health Voucher Scheme?

The Maternal Health Voucher Scheme aims:

• To improve access to maternal health services and their utilization by pregnant women.

• To increase the probability of pregnant women delivering in a proper health facility so as to minimize neonatal and infant mortality.

• To promote mother and child care.

Who is eligible for the Maternal Health Voucher Scheme?

The following pregnant women can benefit from the Maternal Health Voucher Scheme:

• Residence in program (treated) upazila

• First or second pregnancy with a family planning method used in between the pregnancies

• Family income below Tk. 3100 or less per month

• Functionally landless, less than 6,543 sq ft or approximately 0.15 acres of land

How to Apply for Maternal Health Voucher Scheme?

Once you have met the eligibility criteria, you can apply for MHVS at any government health facility.

• To apply, you will need to provide the following documents: Your NID card, a copy of your pregnancy test results (if applicable) and a copy of your birth certificate (if applicable).
• Fill out an application form provided by the authorities.
• Submit your application form and documents to the health care provider.
• Wait for your application to be processed.
• If your application is approved, you will receive a voucher.
• Use the voucher to pay for maternal health care services.

If you have any questions about the MHVS, please contact the local health department or family planning office. The MHVS voucher scheme is a great way to get the care you need during pregnancy and after childbirth. If you are eligible, be sure to apply for MHVS today.

What are the Benefits of Maternal Health Voucher Scheme?

The benefits of the Maternal Health Voucher Scheme are as follows:

• Eligible pregnant women can avail of up to 3 antenatal care checkups at a health facility

• Eligible pregnant women can benefit from delivery by a skilled attendant whether it is at home or in a facility

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• The beneficiaries will receive an incentive worth Tk. 500 for delivery by a skilled attendant at home

• The beneficiaries will receive an incentive worth Tk. 2,000 for delivery by a skilled attendant at a facility

• The beneficiary will also be eligible for a postnatal care checkup within 6 weeks of delivering the baby.

In the years since the Maternal Health Voucher Scheme has been launched in Bangladesh, there have been visible improvements in access to and utilization of maternal health services, antenatal care visits, deliveries assisted by medically trained personnel and neonatal and infant health outcomes.