Evaluation of SIMESON, a training program to improve access to quality health care for pregnant women and newborn in different healthcare facilities of northern Bangladesh.

Knowledge and skills of 88 healthcare providers about the provision of normal delivery and immediate postpartum care, management of postpartum haemorrhage (PPH), retained placenta and use of bag and mask ventilation to help a baby breathe were found to be considerably strengthened following SIMESON training. During the 6 months after training, there were 477 PPH cases managed successfully with only one death; neonatal deaths observed were 6.6/1,000 live births; twice the number of facility deliveries; and 80% use rate of Ambu bag for helping baby breathe. The estimated cost per trainee was 395.68 USD, and 5.85 USD per beneficiary.