A sanctuary for mothers and new life

Apgar Maternity Hospital stands as a symbol of care, expertise and hope, a space created especially for women and their newborns.Featured on this week’s episode of My.na Property, this privately owned facility is more than just a hospital, it’s a thoughtfully designed haven that places maternal and infant health at the forefront.The name “Apgar” carries deep significance, co-founder Sister Nancy Natalia Shiweda, explains. Derived from Dr. Virginia Apgar, who developed the Apgar Score in 1952 - a simple yet vital assessment of a newborn’s health - it reflects the hospital’s focus on safe childbirth. The acronym evaluates the Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity and Respiration of newborns, reminding every staff member of the purpose they serve. “When we chose the name, we wanted it to speak to what we do,” said Sister Nancy. “Every time you hear ‘Apgar’, it immediately connects you to birth and babies. That’s the heart of our mission.” Co-founder Dr Emmanuel Tom shared how the idea for the hospital grew from their years in general medical practice.“Over time, we realised our passion was in women’s health,” he said. “We wanted to do more to create a space that complements existing public health services and helps reduce Namibia’s maternal and infant mortality rates.” And that’s exactly what they’ve done.Since opening, Apgar Maternity Hospital has focused solely on maternal care, providing a calm, clinical environment backed by advanced equipment and expert staff.Specialised, comprehensive careThe hospital offers four key departments: Obstetrics, Gynaecology, Maternity, and a Neonatal ICU that includes a high-care unit. From pregnancy confirmation to delivery, whether natural or via caesarean section, patients receive consistent, attentive care.“Our gynaecology unit handles conditions related to the reproductive system, from abnormal pap smears to minor procedures,” said Sister Nancy.“Meanwhile, our neonatal ICU supports premature or low birth weight babies or those with circulatory or respiratory challenges.”With state-of-the-art technology and highly trained professionals, Apgar provides the level of care mothers and newborns deserve.However, the hospital’s vision extends beyond clinical care. Florence Nightingale’s philosophy that “the environment itself can be therapeutic” strongly influenced the design of the facility.“Our rooms are spacious, the theatre meets all ministry standards, and we’ve created a quiet, well-ventilated, light-filled space where mothers can feel calm,” Sister Nancy said. “Friendly staff and attention to mental well-being are just as important as physical treatment.”Year of reflection and growthAs Apgar approaches its first anniversary, Dr. Tom says their greatest measure of success has been patient feedback. “We always go back to our patients and ask, ‘How was your experience? Would you return?’ Their answers guide us,” he said.“We also monitor things like infection rates, delivery outcomes, and overall patient satisfaction. So far, we’re proud to say we’ve had many safe and successful deliveries.” The vision for Apgar is clear: to become a household name in Namibian maternity care. “We’re committed to integrity, confidentiality, and excellence,” Dr. Tom said.“As we grow, we’ll continue aligning with our mission to provide expert, compassionate care to every mother and baby who walks through our doors.”Apgar Maternity Hospital is more than a medical facility. It’s a place where life begins with care, dignity, and hope.

A sanctuary for mothers and new life

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Republikein 2025-06-17

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A sanctuary for mothers and new life

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Republikein 2025-06-17

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