Hotline for obstetrics

JAKARTA (JP): Those in need of information on obstetrics and gynecology can now dial 3901122 and 3901133 or fax 3901177 for the hotline at Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital in Central Jakarta.

The 24-hour hotline service is the result of collaboration between PT Telkom's Central Jakarta office and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the hospital.

Sigit Pramono, the head of PT Telkom Central Jakarta, and Dr. Hatta Tunggul Sukirna, who is in charge of the obstetric development program at the hospital, signed the deal yesterday.

Sigit Pramono said that the new telecommunication services is expected to help the hospital spread information on obstetrics and gynecology to the people, Antara reported.

"Those who need the information do not always brave the traffic and come here," Sigit explained.

The head of the Obstetric and Gynecology Department at the hospital, Dr. Nugroho Kartono, said consultations over the phones would help the hospital provide quick help to patients. "In this way we hope the death rate of mothers and infants can be reduced," Nugroho said.

425 out of every 1,000 new-born babies die at present, he said. (sur)