This large review looked at how far sick newborns must travel to reach a hospital. It combined data from thirty-seven different studies to see how travel time affects survival. The research included places with many resources as well as those with fewer resources.
Babies who traveled less than thirty minutes had a very high chance of surviving. Those who traveled up to two hours still had better odds than those on longer trips. The data suggests that shorter journeys are linked to healthier outcomes for newborns.
However, the results were not the same everywhere. Studies from wealthier countries showed weaker links between travel time and survival. The review notes that many different methods were used across the studies, which makes exact predictions difficult.
Experts say a standard of thirty minutes or one hour is better than two hours. This shorter time should be balanced with good quality care at the hospital. The findings help guide rules for moving sick babies safely to treatment.