Latifa Hospital for Women and Children has announced an expansion of labour and delivery suite and the emergency department by the final quarter of this year.

"The expansion of the labour suite is to increase capacity and further create a patient-centric and family-centric environment in line with international modern practices. The design is such that it will enhance accessibility, safety and delivery of service," Dr. Muna Tahlak, CEO of Latifa Hospital, said.

"The hospital is a recognised Baby Friendly Hospital and we follow kangaroo-care practices even for NICU babies to ensure speedy recovery of premature babies and early bonding between parents and the baby.

"Every year approximately 6000 deliveries take place at the hospital and we are recognised as a referral centre for complicated cases. These cases are accepted after due procedures are followed by the referring hospital," he added.

In 2016, approximately 60,000 patients were seen in the emergency departments of the hospital. The expansion will double the capacity of the emergency departments.