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Molenaar J, Beňová L, Christou A, Lange IL, van Olmen J. Travelling numbers and broken loops: A qualitative systematic review on collecting and reporting maternal and neonatal health data in low-and lower-middle income countries. SSM Popul Health 2024; 26:101668. [PMID: 38645668 PMCID: PMC11031824 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2024.101668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Data and indicator estimates are considered vital to document persisting challenges in maternal and newborn health and track progress towards global goals. However, prioritization of standardised, comparable quantitative data can preclude the collection of locally relevant information and pose overwhelming burdens in low-resource settings, with negative effects on the provision of quality of care. A growing body of qualitative studies aims to provide a place-based understanding of the complex processes and human experiences behind the generation and use of maternal and neonatal health data. We conducted a qualitative systematic review exploring how national or international requirements to collect and report data on maternal and neonatal health indicators are perceived and experienced at the sub-national and country level in low-income and lower-middle income countries. We systematically searched six electronic databases for qualitative and mixed-methods studies published between January 2000 and March 2023. Following screening of 4084 records by four reviewers, 47 publications were included in the review. Data were analysed thematically and synthesised from a Complex Adaptive Systems (CAS) theoretical perspective. Our findings show maternal and neonatal health data and indicators are not fixed, neutral entities, but rather outcomes of complex processes. Their collection and uptake is influenced by a multitude of system hardware elements (human resources, relevancy and adequacy of tools, infrastructure, and interoperability) and software elements (incentive systems, supervision and feedback, power and social relations, and accountability). When these components are aligned and sufficiently supportive, data and indicators can be used for positive system adaptivity through performance evaluation, prioritization, learning, and advocacy. Yet shortcomings and broken loops between system components can lead to unforeseen emergent behaviors such as blame, fear, and data manipulation. This review highlights the importance of measurement approaches that prioritize local relevance and feasibility, necessitating participatory approaches to define context-specific measurement objectives and strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jil Molenaar
- Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp, Nationalestraat 155, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium
- University of Antwerp, Doornstraat 331, 2610, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Lenka Beňová
- Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp, Nationalestraat 155, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Aliki Christou
- Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp, Nationalestraat 155, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Isabelle L. Lange
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), London, United Kingdom
- Center for Global Health, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
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Gausman J, Kenu E, Adanu R, Bandoh DAB, Berrueta M, Chakraborty S, Khan N, Langer A, Nigri C, Odikro MA, Pingray V, Ramesh S, Saggurti N, Vázquez P, Williams CR, Jolivet RR. Validating the indicator "maternal death review coverage" to improve maternal mortality data: A retrospective analysis of district, facility, and individual medical record data. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0303028. [PMID: 38768186 PMCID: PMC11104582 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0303028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding causes and contributors to maternal mortality is critical from a quality improvement perspective to inform decision making and monitor progress toward ending preventable maternal mortality. The indicator "maternal death review coverage" is defined as the percentage of maternal deaths occurring in a facility that are audited. Both the numerator and denominator of this indicator are subject to misclassification errors, underreporting, and bias. This study assessed the validity of the indicator by examining both its numerator-the number and quality of death reviews-and denominator-the number of facility-based maternal deaths and comparing estimates of the indicator obtained from facility- versus district-level data. METHODS AND FINDINGS We collected data on the number of maternal deaths and content of death reviews from all health facilities serving as birthing sites in 12 districts in three countries: Argentina, Ghana, and India. Additional data were extracted from health management information systems on the number and dates of maternal deaths and maternal death reviews reported from health facilities to the district-level. We tabulated the percentage of facility deaths with evidence of a review, the percentage of reviews that met the World Health Organization defined standard for maternal and perinatal death surveillance and response. Results were stratified by sociodemographic characteristics of women and facility location and type. We compared these estimates to that obtained using district-level data. and looked at evidence of the review at the district/provincial level. Study teams reviewed facility records at 34 facilities in Argentina, 51 facilities in Ghana, and 282 facilities in India. In total, we found 17 deaths in Argentina, 14 deaths in Ghana, and 58 deaths in India evidenced at facilities. Overall, >80% of deaths had evidence of a review at facilities. In India, a much lower percentage of deaths occurring at secondary-level facilities (61.1%) had evidence of a review compared to deaths in tertiary-level facilities (92.1%). In all three countries, only about half of deaths in each country had complete reviews: 58.8% (n = 10) in Argentina, 57.2% (n = 8) in Ghana, and 41.1% (n = 24) in India. Dramatic reductions in indicator value were seen in several subnational geographic areas, including Gonda and Meerut in India and Sunyani in Ghana. For example, in Gonda only three of the 18 reviews conducted at facilities met the definitional standard (16.7%), which caused the value of the indicator to decrease from 81.8% to 13.6%. Stratification by women's sociodemographic factors suggested systematic differences in completeness of reviews by women's age, place of residence, and timing of death. CONCLUSIONS Our study assessed the validity of an important indicator for ending preventable deaths: the coverage of reviews of maternal deaths occurring in facilities in three study settings. We found discrepancies in deaths recorded at facilities and those reported to districts from facilities. Further, few maternal death reviews met global quality standards for completeness. The value of the calculated indicator masked inaccuracies in counts of both deaths and reviews and gave no indication of completeness, thus undermining the ultimate utility of the measure in achieving an accurate measure of coverage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jewel Gausman
- Women and Health Initiative, Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard University T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Maternal and Child Nursing Department, School of Nursing, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Ernest Kenu
- Department of Epidemiology and Disease Control, University of Ghana School of Public Health, Accra, Ghana
| | - Richard Adanu
- Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health, University of Ghana School of Public Health, Accra, Ghana
| | - Delia A. B. Bandoh
- Department of Epidemiology and Disease Control, University of Ghana School of Public Health, Accra, Ghana
| | - Mabel Berrueta
- Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy (Instituto de Efectividad Clínica y Sanitaria (IECS)), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | - Ana Langer
- Women and Health Initiative, Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard University T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Carolina Nigri
- Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy (Instituto de Efectividad Clínica y Sanitaria (IECS)), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Magdalene A. Odikro
- Department of Epidemiology and Disease Control, University of Ghana School of Public Health, Accra, Ghana
| | - Verónica Pingray
- Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy (Instituto de Efectividad Clínica y Sanitaria (IECS)), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | - Paula Vázquez
- Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy (Instituto de Efectividad Clínica y Sanitaria (IECS)), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Department of Health Science, Kinesiology, and Rehabilitation, Universidad Nacional de La Matanza, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Caitlin R. Williams
- Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy (Instituto de Efectividad Clínica y Sanitaria (IECS)), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Department of Maternal & and Child Health, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - R. Rima Jolivet
- Women and Health Initiative, Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard University T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
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Willcox ML, Okello IA, Maidwell-Smith A, Tura AK, van den Akker T, Knight M, Dumont A, Muller I. Determinants of behaviors influencing implementation of maternal and perinatal death surveillance and response in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review of qualitative studies. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2024; 165:586-600. [PMID: 37727893 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.15132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Review (MPDSR) can reduce mortality but its implementation is often suboptimal, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). OBJECTIVES To understand the determinants of behaviors influencing implementation of MPDSR in LMICs (through a systematic review of qualitative studies), in order to plan an intervention to improve its implementation. SEARCH STRATEGY Terms for maternal or perinatal death reviews and qualitative studies. SELECTION CRITERIA Qualitative studies regarding implementation of MPDSR in LMICs. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We coded the included studies using the Theoretical Domains Framework and COM-B model of behavior change (Capability, Opportunity, Motivation). We developed guiding principles for interventions to improve implementation of MPDSR. MAIN RESULTS Fifty-nine studies met our inclusion criteria. Capabilities required to conduct MPDSR (knowledge and technical/leadership skills) increase cumulatively from community to health facility and leadership levels. Physical and social opportunities depend on adequate data, human and financial resources, and a blame-free environment. All stakeholders were motivated to avoid negative consequences (blame, litigation, disciplinary action). CONCLUSIONS Implementation of MPDSR could be improved by (1) introducing structural changes to reduce negative consequences, (2) strengthening data collection tools and information systems, (3) mobilizing adequate resources, and (4) building capabilities of all stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merlin L Willcox
- Primary Care Research Centre, School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, University of Southampton, Aldermoor Health Centre, Southampton, UK
| | - Immaculate A Okello
- Primary Care Research Centre, School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, University of Southampton, Aldermoor Health Centre, Southampton, UK
| | - Alice Maidwell-Smith
- Primary Care Research Centre, School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, University of Southampton, Aldermoor Health Centre, Southampton, UK
| | - Abera Kenay Tura
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Thomas van den Akker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Athena Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marian Knight
- National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Ingrid Muller
- Primary Care Research Centre, School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, University of Southampton, Aldermoor Health Centre, Southampton, UK
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Abdulai AG. Overcoming the constraints of competitive clientelism? Explaining the success of Ghana's poorest region in reducing maternal mortality. Int J Health Plann Manage 2024; 39:363-379. [PMID: 37926799 DOI: 10.1002/hpm.3728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal mortality remains a health challenge that many developing countries struggle to address. Drawing on 64 key informant interviews, this article shows how Ghana's most impoverished administrative region, the Upper East, emerged as a bureaucratic 'pocket of effectiveness' in reducing maternal mortality in a context where national political settlement dynamics are undermining progress in improving maternal health. At the national level, Ghana's progress in reducing maternal mortality has been disappointing because public investments are disproportionately directed to reforms that contribute to the short-term political survival of ruling elites. Competitive electoral pressures have contributed to greater elite commitment towards health sector investments with visual impact, while weakening elite incentives for dedicating resources to interventions that are necessary for enhancing the quality of health. The relatively better performance of the Upper East Region in reducing maternal mortality has been driven by a hybrid form of accountability that combines top-down pressures from the regional health directorate with horizontal forms of accountability that result in a competitive spirit among health workers. These findings show that even in contexts where resources are limited, the capacity of sub-national leaders in devising local solutions to local problems can lead to improved performance of health systems at the sub-national level. The findings also suggest the need for academic debates to go beyond the binary distinctions regarding the usefulness of top-down versus bottom-up accountability measures and focus on building effective and legitimate forms of accountability that run both top-down and bottom-up when seeking to improve health service delivery.
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Tura AK, Knight M, Girma S, Ahmed R, Yuya M, Bekele D, Hassen TA, Stekelenburg J, van den Akker T. Characteristics and outcomes of pregnant women hospitalized with severe maternal outcomes in eastern Ethiopia: Results from the Ethiopian Obstetric Surveillance System study. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2024; 164:714-720. [PMID: 37961999 PMCID: PMC10952177 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.15240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the present study was to identify facility-based incidence of severe obstetric complications through a newly established obstetric surveillance system in eastern Ethiopia. METHODS Monthly registration of obstetric hemorrhage, eclampsia, uterine rupture, severe anemia and sepsis was introduced in 13 maternity units in eastern Ethiopia. At each hospital, a designated clinician reported details of women admitted during pregnancy, childbirth or within 42 days of termination of pregnancy from April 01, 2021 to March 31, 2022 developing any of these conditions. Detailed data on sociodemographic characteristics, obstetric complications and status at discharge were collected by trained research assistants. RESULTS Among 38 782 maternities during the study period, 2043 (5.3%) women had any of the five conditions. Seventy women died, representing a case fatality rate of 3.4%. The three leading reasons for admission were obstetric hemorrhage (972; 47.6%), severe anemia (727; 35.6%), and eclampsia (438; 21.4%). The majority of the maternal deaths were from obstetric hemorrhage (27/70; 38.6%) followed by eclampsia (17/70; 24.3%). CONCLUSION Obstetric hemorrhage, severe anemia and eclampsia were the leading causes of severe obstetric complications in eastern Ethiopia. Almost one in 29 women admitted with obstetric complications died. Audit of quality of care is indicated to design tailored interventions to improve maternal survival and obstetric complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abera Kenay Tura
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical SciencesHaramaya UniversityHararEthiopia
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity Medical Center Groningen, University of GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Marian Knight
- National Perinatal Epidemiology UnitUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Sagni Girma
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical SciencesHaramaya UniversityHararEthiopia
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Redwan Ahmed
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyHiwot Fana Specialized University HospitalHararEthiopia
| | - Mohammed Yuya
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya UniversityHararEthiopia
| | - Delayehu Bekele
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySt. Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical CollegeAddis AbabaEthiopia
| | - Tahir Ahmed Hassen
- Center for Women's Health ResearchUniversity of NewcastleNewcastleNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Jelle Stekelenburg
- Department of Health Sciences, Global HealthUniversity Medical Center Groningen, University of GroningenThe Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyLeeuwarden Medical CenterLeeuwardenThe Netherlands
| | - Thomas van den Akker
- National Perinatal Epidemiology UnitUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
- Athena Institute, Vrije Universiteit AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
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Heemelaar S, Callard B, Shikwambi H, Ellmies J, Kafitha W, Stekelenburg J, van den Akker T, Mackenzie S. Confidential Enquiry into Maternal Deaths in Namibia, 2018-2019: A Local Approach to Strengthen the Review Process and a Description of Review Findings and Recommendations. Matern Child Health J 2023; 27:2165-2174. [PMID: 37777707 PMCID: PMC10618300 DOI: 10.1007/s10995-023-03771-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES First objective was to strengthen the national maternal death review, by addressing local challenges with each step of the review cycle. Second objective was to describe review findings and compare these with available findings of previous reviews. METHODS Confidential Enquiry into Maternal Deaths methodology was used to review maternal deaths. To improve reporting, the national committee focussed on addressing fear of blame among healthcare providers. Second focus was on dissemination of findings and acting on recommendations forthcoming the review. Reviewed were reported maternal deaths, that occurred between 1 April 2018 and 31 March 2019. RESULTS Seventy maternal deaths were reported; for 69 (98.6%) medical records were available, compared to 80/119 (67.2%) in 2012-2015. Reported maternal mortality ratio increased with 48% (92/100,000 live births compared to 62/100,000 in 2012-2015). Obstetric haemorrhage was leading cause of death in the past three reviews. The "no name, no blame" policy, aiming to identify health system failures, rather than mistakes of individuals, was repeatedly explained to healthcare providers during facility visits. Recommendations based on findings of the review, such as retaining experienced staff, continuous in-service training and guidance, were shared with decision makers at regional and national levels. Healthcare providers received training based on review findings, which resulted in improved management of similar cases. CONCLUSIONS FOR PRACTICE Enhanced implementation of Confidential Enquiry into Maternal Deaths was possible after addressing local challenges. Focussing on obtaining trust of healthcare providers and feeding back findings, resulted in better reporting and prevention of potential maternal deaths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steffie Heemelaar
- National Maternal Death, Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Review Committee, Division of Quality Assurance, Ministry of Health and Social Services, Windhoek, Namibia.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Beatrix Callard
- National Maternal Death, Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Review Committee, Division of Quality Assurance, Ministry of Health and Social Services, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Hilma Shikwambi
- National Maternal Death, Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Review Committee, Division of Quality Assurance, Ministry of Health and Social Services, Windhoek, Namibia
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, International University of Management, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Jana Ellmies
- National Maternal Death, Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Review Committee, Division of Quality Assurance, Ministry of Health and Social Services, Windhoek, Namibia
- Independent Midwives Association of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Wilhelmina Kafitha
- Division of Quality Assurance, Ministry of Health and Social Services, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Jelle Stekelenburg
- Department of Health Science, Global Health, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical Center Leeuwarden, Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas van den Akker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Athena Institute, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Shonag Mackenzie
- National Maternal Death, Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Review Committee, Division of Quality Assurance, Ministry of Health and Social Services, Windhoek, Namibia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
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Onambele L, Guillen-Aguinaga S, Guillen-Aguinaga L, Ortega-Leon W, Montejo R, Alas-Brun R, Aguinaga-Ontoso E, Aguinaga-Ontoso I, Guillen-Grima F. Trends, Projections, and Regional Disparities of Maternal Mortality in Africa (1990-2030): An ARIMA Forecasting Approach. EPIDEMIOLOGIA 2023; 4:322-351. [PMID: 37754279 PMCID: PMC10528291 DOI: 10.3390/epidemiologia4030032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
With the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) (2015-2030) focused on the reduction in maternal mortality, monitoring and forecasting maternal mortality rates (MMRs) in regions like Africa is crucial for health strategy planning by policymakers, international organizations, and NGOs. We collected maternal mortality rates per 100,000 births from the World Bank database between 1990 and 2015. Joinpoint regression was applied to assess trends, and the autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model was used on 1990-2015 data to forecast the MMRs for the next 15 years. We also used the Holt method and the machine-learning Prophet Forecasting Model. The study found a decline in MMRs in Africa with an average annual percentage change (APC) of -2.6% (95% CI -2.7; -2.5). North Africa reported the lowest MMR, while East Africa experienced the sharpest decline. The region-specific ARIMA models predict that the maternal mortality rate (MMR) in 2030 will vary across regions, ranging from 161 deaths per 100,000 births in North Africa to 302 deaths per 100,000 births in Central Africa, averaging 182 per 100,000 births for the continent. Despite the observed decreasing trend in maternal mortality rate (MMR), the MMR in Africa remains relatively high. The results indicate that MMR in Africa will continue to decrease by 2030. However, no region of Africa will likely reach the SDG target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luc Onambele
- School of Health Sciences, Catholic University of Central Africa, Yaoundé 1110, Cameroon;
| | - Sara Guillen-Aguinaga
- Department of Health Sciences, Public University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (S.G.-A.); (L.G.-A.); (R.A.-B.)
| | - Laura Guillen-Aguinaga
- Department of Health Sciences, Public University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (S.G.-A.); (L.G.-A.); (R.A.-B.)
- Department of Nursing, Suldal Sykehjem, 4230 Sands, Norway
| | - Wilfrido Ortega-Leon
- Department of Surgery, Medical and Social Sciences, University of Alcala de Henares, 28871 Alcalá de Henares, Spain;
| | - Rocio Montejo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Gothenburg, 413 46 Gothenburg, Sweden;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, 413 46 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Rosa Alas-Brun
- Department of Health Sciences, Public University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (S.G.-A.); (L.G.-A.); (R.A.-B.)
| | | | - Ines Aguinaga-Ontoso
- Department of Health Sciences, Public University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (S.G.-A.); (L.G.-A.); (R.A.-B.)
- Area of Epidemiology and Public Health, Healthcare Research Institute of Navarre (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- CIBER in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Institute of Health Carlos III, 46980 Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Guillen-Grima
- Department of Health Sciences, Public University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (S.G.-A.); (L.G.-A.); (R.A.-B.)
- Area of Epidemiology and Public Health, Healthcare Research Institute of Navarre (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- CIBER in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Institute of Health Carlos III, 46980 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
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Negash A, Sertsu A, Mengistu DA, Tamire A, Birhanu Weldesenbet A, Dechasa M, Nigussie K, Bete T, Yadeta E, Balcha T, Debele GR, Dechasa DB, Fekredin H, Geremew H, Dereje J, Tolesa F, Lami M. Prevalence and determinants of maternal near miss in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis, 2015-2023. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:380. [PMID: 37468876 PMCID: PMC10357694 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02523-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND One of the most challenging problems in developing countries including Ethiopia is improving maternal health. About 303,000 mothers die globally, and one in every 180 is at risk from maternal causes. Developing regions account for 99% of maternal deaths. Maternal near miss (MNM) resulted in long-term consequences. A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to assess the prevalence and predictors of maternal near miss in Ethiopia from January 2015 to March 2023. METHODS A systematic review and meta-analysis cover both published and unpublished studies from different databases (PubMed, CINHAL, Scopus, Science Direct, and the Cochrane Library) to search for published studies whilst searches for unpublished studies were conducted using Google Scholar and Google searches. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used. Duplicated studies were removed using Endnote X8. The paper quality was also assessed based on the JBI checklist. Finally, 21 studies were included in the study. Data synthesis and statistical analysis were conducted using STATA Version 17 software. Forest plots were used to present the pooled prevalence using the random effect model. Heterogeneity and publication bias was evaluated using Cochran's Q test, (Q) and I squared test (I2). Subgroup analysis based on study region and year of publication was performed. RESULT From a total of 705 obtained studies, twenty-one studies involving 701,997 pregnant or postpartum mothers were included in the final analysis. The national pooled prevalence of MNM in Ethiopia was 140/1000 [95% CI: 80, 190]. Lack of formal education [AOR = 2.10, 95% CI: 1.09, 3.10], Lack of antenatal care [AOR = 2.18, 95% CI: 1.33, 3.03], history of cesarean section [AOR = 4.07, 95% CI: 2.91, 5.24], anemia [AOR = 4.86, 95% CI: 3.24, 6.47], and having chronic medical disorder [AOR = 2.41, 95% CI: 1.53, 3.29] were among the predictors of maternal near misses from the pooled estimate. CONCLUSION The national prevalence of maternal near miss was still substantial. Antenatal care is found to be protective against maternal near miss. Emphasizing antenatal care to prevent anemia and modifying other chronic medical conditions is recommended as prevention strategies. Avoiding primary cesarean section is recommended unless a clear indication is present. Finally, the country should place more emphasis on strategies for reducing MNM and its consequences, with the hope of improving women's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abraham Negash
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia.
| | - Addisu Sertsu
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Dechasa Adare Mengistu
- School of Environmental Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Aklilu Tamire
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Adisu Birhanu Weldesenbet
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Mesay Dechasa
- School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Kabtamu Nigussie
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Tilahun Bete
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Elias Yadeta
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Taganu Balcha
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | | | - Deribe Bekele Dechasa
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Hamdi Fekredin
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Habtamu Geremew
- College of Health Sciences, Oda Bultum University, Chiro, Ethiopia
| | - Jerman Dereje
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Fikadu Tolesa
- College of Health Sciences, Salale University, Fitche, Ethiopia
| | - Magarsa Lami
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
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Tura AK, Girma S, Dessie Y, Bekele D, Stekelenburg J, van den Akker T, Knight M. Establishing the Ethiopian Obstetric Surveillance System for Monitoring Maternal Outcomes in Eastern Ethiopia: A Pilot Study. GLOBAL HEALTH, SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2023; 11:GHSP-D-22-00281. [PMID: 37116928 PMCID: PMC10141431 DOI: 10.9745/ghsp-d-22-00281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the majority of maternal deaths and complications occur in low-resource settings, almost all existing strong registration and confidential enquiry systems are found in high-resource settings. We developed and piloted the Ethiopian Obstetric Surveillance System (EthOSS), based on the successful United Kingdom Obstetric Surveillance System (UKOSS) methodology, in 3 regions in Ethiopia to improve ongoing surveillance and tracking of maternal morbidities and deaths, as well as confidential enquiry, compared to the currently used maternal death surveillance and response program in Ethiopia. METHODS We launched the EthOSS monthly case notification system in 13 hospitals in eastern Ethiopia in April 2021. Study participants included women admitted to the hospitals from April to September 2021 with major adverse obstetric conditions during pregnancy, childbirth, or within 42 days of termination of pregnancy. Designated clinicians at the hospitals used a simple online system to report the number of cases and maternal deaths monthly to the EthOSS team. We present findings on the incidence and case fatality rates for adverse conditions included in the EthOSS. RESULTS Over the 6-month pilot period, 904 women with at least 1 EthOSS condition were included in the study, of whom 10 died (case fatality rate, 1.1%). Almost half (46.6%, 421/904) sustained major obstetric hemorrhage, 38.7% (350/904) severe anemia, 29.5% (267/904) eclampsia, 8.8% (80/904) sepsis, and 2.2% (20/904) uterine rupture. To enable care improvement alongside surveillance, the local committee received training on confidential enquiry into maternal deaths from internal and external experts. CONCLUSIONS In this facility-based project, data on severe adverse obstetric conditions were captured through voluntary reporting by clinicians. Further analysis is essential to assess the robustness of these data, and confidential enquiry into maternal deaths for specific cases is planned to investigate the appropriateness of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abera Kenay Tura
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Sagni Girma
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Yadeta Dessie
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Delayehu Bekele
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, St. Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Jelle Stekelenburg
- Department of Health Sciences, Global Health, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, the Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Leeuwarden Medical Centre, Leeuwarden, the Netherlands
| | - Thomas van den Akker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Athena Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Marian Knight
- National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Mathai M. Maternal Death Surveillance and Response: Looking Backward, Going Forward. GLOBAL HEALTH, SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2023; 11:GHSP-D-23-00099. [PMID: 37116938 PMCID: PMC10141420 DOI: 10.9745/ghsp-d-23-00099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Matthews Mathai
- Associate Editor, Global Health: Science and Practice Journal; Independent consultant, St. John's, NL, Canada
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11
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Kurjak A, Stanojević M, Dudenhausen J. Why maternal mortality in the world remains tragedy in low-income countries and shame for high-income ones: will sustainable development goals (SDG) help? J Perinat Med 2023; 51:170-181. [PMID: 35636412 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2022-0061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Maternal death is defined as the death of a woman while pregnant or within 42 days of termination of pregnancy, irrespective of the duration and the site of the pregnancy, from any cause related to or aggravated by the pregnancy or its management. Maternal mortality (MM) and morbidity are a public health issue, with scarce knowledge on their levels and causes in low-income (LIC) countries. The data on MM and morbidity should rely on population-based studies which are non-existent. Therefore, maternal mortality ratio (MMR) estimates are based mostly on the mathematical models. MMR declined from 430 per 100,000 live births (LB) in 1990 to 211 in 2017. Absolute numbers of maternal deaths were 585,000 in 1990, 514,500 in 1995 and less than 300,000 nowadays. Regardless of reduction, MM remains neglected tragedy especially in LIC. Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) declared reduction MMR by three quarters between 2000 and 2015, which failed. Target of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) was to decrease MMR to 70 per 100,000 LB. Based on the data from the country report on SDGs in 10 countries with the highest absolute number of maternal deaths it can be concluded that the progress has not been made in reaching the targeted MMR. To reduce MMR, inequalities in access to and quality of reproductive, maternal, and newborn health care services should be addressed, together with strengthening health systems to respond to the needs and priorities of women and girls, ensuring accountability to improve quality of care and equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asim Kurjak
- President of International Academy of Perinatal Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Milan Stanojević
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Medical School, University of Zagreb, Neonatal Unit, Clinical Hospital "Sv. Duh", Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Joachim Dudenhausen
- Department of Obstetrics, Charité-University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Tesfay N, Tariku R, Zenebe A, Habtetsion M, Woldeyohannes F. Place of death and associated factors among reviewed maternal deaths in Ethiopia: a generalised structural equation modelling. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e060933. [PMID: 36697051 PMCID: PMC9884926 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-060933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study aims to determine the magnitude and factors that affect maternal death in different settings. DESIGN, SETTING AND ANALYSIS A review of national maternal death surveillance data was conducted. The data were obtained through medical record review and verbal autopsies of each death. Generalised structural equation modelling was employed to simultaneously examine the relationships among exogenous, mediating (urban/rural residence) and endogenous variables. OUTCOME Magnitude and factors related to the location of maternal death. PARTICIPANTS A total of 4316 maternal deaths were reviewed from 2013 to 2020. RESULTS Facility death constitutes 69.0% of maternal deaths in the reporting period followed by home death and death while in transit, each contributing to 17.0% and 13.6% of maternal deaths, respectively. Educational status has a positive direct effect on death occurring at home (β=0.42, 95% CI 0.22 to 0.66), obstetric haemorrhage has a direct positive effect on deaths occurring at home (β=0.41, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.80) and death in transit (β=0.68, 95% CI 0.48 to 0.87), while it has a direct negative effect on death occurring at a health facility (β=-0.60, 95% CI -0.77 to -0.44). Moreover, unanticipated management of complication has a positive direct (β=0.99, 95% CI 0.34 to 1.63), indirect (β=0.05, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.07) and total (β=1.04, 95% CI 0.38 to 1.70) effect on facility death. Residence is a mediator variable and is associated with all places of death. It has a connection with facility death (β=-0.70, 95% CI -0.95 to -0.46), death during transit (β=0.51, 95% CI 0.20 to 0.83) and death at home (β=0.85, 95% CI 0.54 to 1.17). CONCLUSION Almost 7 in 10 maternal deaths occurred at the health facility. Sociodemographic factors, medical causes of death and non-medical causes of death mediated by residence were factors associated with the place of death. Thus, factors related to the place of death should be considered as an area of intervention to mitigate preventable maternal death that occurred in different settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neamin Tesfay
- Centre of Public Health Emergency Management, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Rozina Tariku
- Centre of Public Health Emergency Management, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Alemu Zenebe
- Centre of Public Health Emergency Management, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Medhanye Habtetsion
- Centre of Public Health Emergency Management, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Fitsum Woldeyohannes
- Health Financing Department, Clinton Health Access Initiative, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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13
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Tesfay N, Hailu G, Woldeyohannes F. Effect of optimal antenatal care on maternal and perinatal health in Ethiopia. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1120979. [PMID: 36824654 PMCID: PMC9941639 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1120979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Receiving at least four antenatal care (ANC) visits have paramount importance on the health of mothers and perinates. In Ethiopia, several studies were conducted on ANC service utilization; however, limited studies quantified the effect of care on maternal and perinate health. In response to this gap, this study is conducted to quantify the effect of optimal ANC care (≥4 visits) on maternal and perinatal health among women who received optimal care in comparison to women who did not receive optimal care. METHODS The study utilized the Ethiopian perinatal death surveillance and response (PDSR) system dataset. A total of 3,814 reviewed perinatal deaths were included in the study. Considering the nature of the data, preferential within propensity score matching (PWPSM) was performed to determine the effect of optimal ANC care on maternal and perinatal health. The effect of optimal care was reported using average treatment effects of the treated [ATT]. RESULT The result revealed that optimal ANC care had a positive effect on reducing perinatal death, due to respiratory and cardiovascular disorders, [ATT = -0.015, 95%CI (-0.029 to -0.001)] and extending intrauterine life by one week [ATT = 1.277, 95%CI: (0.563-1.991)]. While it's effect on maternal health includes, avoiding the risk of having uterine rupture [ATT = -0.012, 95%CI: (-0.018 to -0.005)], improving the utilization of operative vaginal delivery (OVD) [ATT = 0.032, 95%CI: (0.001-0.062)] and avoiding delay to decide to seek care [ATT = -0.187, 95%CI: (-0.354 to -0.021)]. CONCLUSION Obtaining optimal ANC care has a positive effect on both maternal and perinatal health. Therefore, policies and interventions geared towards improving the coverage and quality of ANC services should be the top priority to maximize the benefit of the care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neamin Tesfay
- Center of Public Emergency Management, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Girmay Hailu
- Center of Public Emergency Management, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Fitsum Woldeyohannes
- Health Financing Department, Clinton Health Access Initiative, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Willcox ML, Okello IA, Maidwell-Smith A, Tura AK, van den Akker T, Knight M. Maternal and perinatal death surveillance and response: a systematic review of qualitative studies. Bull World Health Organ 2023; 101:62-75G. [PMID: 36593778 PMCID: PMC9795385 DOI: 10.2471/blt.22.288703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To understand the experiences and perceptions of people implementing maternal and/or perinatal death surveillance and response in low- and middle-income countries, and the mechanisms by which this process can achieve its intended outcomes. Methods In June 2022, we systematically searched seven databases for qualitative studies of stakeholders implementing maternal and/or perinatal death surveillance and response in low- and middle-income countries. Two reviewers independently screened articles and assessed their quality. We used thematic synthesis to derive descriptive themes and a realist approach to understand the context-mechanism-outcome configurations. Findings Fifty-nine studies met the inclusion criteria. Good outcomes (improved quality of care or reduced mortality) were underpinned by a functional action cycle. Mechanisms for effective death surveillance and response included learning, vigilance and implementation of recommendations which motivated further engagement. The key context to enable effective death surveillance and response was a blame-free learning environment with good leadership. Inadequate outcomes (lack of improvement in care and mortality and discontinuation of death surveillance and response) resulted from a vicious cycle of under-reporting, inaccurate data, and inadequate review and recommendations, which led to demotivation and disengagement. Some harmful outcomes were reported, such as inappropriate referrals and worsened staff shortages, which resulted from a fear of negative consequences, including blame, disciplinary action or litigation. Conclusion Conditions needed for effective maternal and/or perinatal death surveillance and response include: separation of the process from litigation and disciplinary procedures; comprehensive guidelines and training; adequate resources to implement recommendations; and supportive supervision to enable safe learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merlin L Willcox
- School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, University of Southampton, Aldermoor Health Centre, Aldermoor Close, SouthamptonSO16 5SE, England
| | - Immaculate A Okello
- School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, University of Southampton, Aldermoor Health Centre, Aldermoor Close, SouthamptonSO16 5SE, England
| | - Alice Maidwell-Smith
- School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, University of Southampton, Aldermoor Health Centre, Aldermoor Close, SouthamptonSO16 5SE, England
| | - Abera K Tura
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Thomas van den Akker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Marian Knight
- National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford, England
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Abouchadi S, Godin I, Zhang WH, De Brouwere V. Eight-year experience of maternal death surveillance in Morocco: qualitative study of stakeholders’ views at a subnational level. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:2111. [DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14556-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Since 2009, Morocco has been implementing the Maternal Death Surveillance System (MDSS). The results obtained indicate significant regional variations in terms of implementation stage, completeness of maternal death reporting, and information use for action. The objective of this research is to better understand the contextual factors involved in the implementation process and use of MDSS, with a focus on the facilitators and barriers, as experienced by stakeholders in health regions.
Methods
Evaluation research was conducted in 2017 based on a descriptive qualitative study using semi-structured in-depth interviews, in four out of the twelve health regions of Morocco. A total of thirty-one in-depth interviews were held with members of regional committees of maternal death reviews (RC-MDR) and other key informant staff. Interviews focused on participants’ views and their experiences with the MDSS since the introduction in 2009. We conducted thematic analysis relied on inductive and deductive approaches. Applying the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research guided data analysis and reporting findings.
Findings
Engaging leadership at all health system levels, regular training of district and regional MDSS coordinators and supportive supervision at a national level were the most important MDSS implementation facilitators. Reported barriers were essentially related to the review system: Irregular review meetings, blame culture, high turn-over of RC-MDR members, lack of analytical capacity to inform the review process and formulate recommendations, finally limited accountability for recommendation follow-up. While financial incentives boosted MDSS adoption, they were nonetheless a substantial barrier to its sustainability.
Conclusions
The MDSS is a complex process that requires taking numerous steps, including the commitment of multiple stakeholders with varying roles as well as information sharing across health system levels. Contextual factors that influence MDSS implementation at the sub-national level are to be considered. Horizontal and vertical communication about MDSS goals and feedback is crucial to strengthen stakeholders’ commitment, hence improving quality and use of MDSS. Furthermore, health regions should place emphasis on making high-quality recommendations in partnerships between the regional management teams, RC-MDR members and external stakeholders.
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Tesfay N, Tariku R, Zenebe A, Dejene Z, Woldeyohannes F. Cause and risk factors of early neonatal death in Ethiopia. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0275475. [PMID: 36174051 PMCID: PMC9521835 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0275475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Globally, three fourth of neonatal deaths occur during the early neonatal period, this makes it a critical time to reduce the burden of neonatal death. The survival status of a newborn is determined by the individual (neonatal and maternal), and facility-level factors. Several studies were conducted in Ethiopia to assess early neonatal death; however, most of the studies had limited participants and did not well address the two main determinant factors covered in this study. In response to this gap, this study attempted to examine factors related to early neonatal death based on perinatal death surveillance data in consideration of all the possible determinants of early neonatal death. Methods The national perinatal death surveillance data were used for this study. A total of 3814 reviewed perinatal deaths were included in the study. Bayesian multilevel parametric survival analysis was employed to identify factors affecting the survival of newborns during the early neonatal period. Adjusted time ratio (ATR) with 95% Bayesian credible intervals (CrI) was reported and log-likelihood was used for model comparison. Statistical significance was declared based on the non-inclusion of 1.0 in the 95% CrI. Result More than half (52.4%) of early neonatal deaths occurred within the first two days of birth. Per the final model, as gestational age increases by a week the risk of dying during the early neonatal period is reduced by 6% [ATR = 0.94,95%CrI:(0.93–0.96)]. There was an increased risk of death during the early neonatal period among neonates deceased due to birth injury as compared to neonates who died due to infection [ATR = 2.05,95%CrI:(1.30–3.32)]; however, perinates who died due to complication of an intrapartum event had a lower risk of death than perinates who died due to infection [ATR = 0.87,95%CrI:(0.83–0.90)]. As the score of delay one and delay three increases by one unit, the newborn’s likelihood of surviving during the early neonatal period is reduced by 4% [ATR = 1.04,95%CrI:(1.01–1.07)] and 21% [ATR = 1.21,95%CrI:(1.15–1.27)] respectively. Neonates born from mothers living in a rural area had a higher risk of dying during the early neonatal period than their counterparts living in an urban area [ATR = 3.53,95%CrI:(3.34–3.69)]. As compared to neonates treated in a primary health facility, being treated in secondary [ATR = 1.14,95%CrI:(1.02–1.27)] and tertiary level of care [ATR = 1.15,95%CrI:(1.04–1.25)] results in a higher risk of death during the early neonatal period. Conclusion The survival of a newborn during the early neonatal period is determined by both individual (gestational age, cause of death, and delay one) and facility (residence, type of health facility and delay three) level factors. Thus, to have a positive early neonatal outcome, a tailored intervention is needed for the three major causes of death (i.e Infection, birth injury, and complications of the intrapartum period). Furthermore, promoting maternal health, improving the health-seeking behaviour of mothers, strengthening facility readiness, and narrowing down inequalities in service provision are recommended to improve the newborn’s outcomes during the early neonatal period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neamin Tesfay
- Centre of Public Health Emergency Management, Ethiopian Public Health Institutes, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- * E-mail:
| | - Rozina Tariku
- Centre of Public Health Emergency Management, Ethiopian Public Health Institutes, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Alemu Zenebe
- Centre of Public Health Emergency Management, Ethiopian Public Health Institutes, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Zewdnesh Dejene
- Centre of Public Health Emergency Management, Ethiopian Public Health Institutes, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Fitsum Woldeyohannes
- Health Financing Program, Clinton Health Access Initiative, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Cetin K, Worku D, Demtse A, Melberg A, Miljeteig I. "Death audit is a fight" - provider perspectives on the ethics of the Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response (MPDSR) system in Ethiopia. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1214. [PMID: 36175949 PMCID: PMC9524002 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08568-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Maternal and neonatal health are regarded as important indicators of health in most countries. Death auditing through, for example, the Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response (MPDSR) is viewed as key to preventing maternal and newborn mortality. However, little is known about the implications of implementing perinatal auditing for healthcare professionals in low-income contexts. This study aimed to explore the ethical and practical consequences clinicians experience concerning MPDSR reporting practices in Ethiopia. METHODS: Qualitative semi-structured in-depth individual interviews were conducted with 16 healthcare workers across professions at selected facilities in Ethiopia. The interview questions were related to clinicians' experiences with, and perceptions of, death auditing. Their strategies for coping with newborn losses and the related reporting practices were also explored. The material was analyzed following systematic text condensation, and the NVivo11 software was used for organizing and coding the data material. RESULTS Participants experienced fear of punishment and blame in relation to the perinatal death auditing process. They found that auditing did not contribute to reducing perinatal deaths and that their motivation to stick to the obligation was negatively affected by this. Performing audits without available resources to provide optimal care or support in the current system was perceived as unfair. Some hid information or misreported information in order to avoid accusations of misconduct when they felt they were not to blame for the baby's death. Coping strategies such as engaging in exceedingly larger work efforts, overtreating patients, or avoiding complicated medical cases were described. CONCLUSIONS Experiencing perinatal death and death reporting constitutes a double burden for the involved healthcare workers. The preventability of perinatal death is perceived as context-dependent, and both clinicians and the healthcare system would benefit from a safe and blame-free reporting environment. To support these healthcare workers in a challenging clinical reality, guidelines and action plans that are specific to the Ethiopian context are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaya Cetin
- Bergen Center for Ethics and Priority Setting, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
| | - Dawit Worku
- Addis Center for Ethics and Priority Setting, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Asrat Demtse
- Addis Center for Ethics and Priority Setting, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Andrea Melberg
- Bergen Center for Ethics and Priority Setting, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Ingrid Miljeteig
- Bergen Center for Ethics and Priority Setting, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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Kinney M, Bergh AM, Rhoda N, Pattinson R, George A. Exploring the sustainability of perinatal audit in four district hospitals in the Western Cape, South Africa: a multiple case study approach. BMJ Glob Health 2022; 7:bmjgh-2022-009242. [PMID: 35738843 PMCID: PMC9226866 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2022-009242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Maternal and perinatal death surveillance and response (MPDSR) is an intervention process that uses a continuous cycle of identification, notification and review of deaths to determine avoidable causes followed by actions to improve health services and prevent future deaths. This study set out to understand how and why a perinatal audit programme, a form of MPDSR, has sustained practice in South Africa from the perspectives of those engaged in implementation. Methods A multiple case study design was carried out in four rural subdistricts of the Western Cape with over 10 years of implementing the programme. Data were collected from October 2019 to March 2020 through non-participant observation of seven meetings and key informant interviews with 41 purposively selected health providers and managers. Thematic analysis was conducted inductively and deductively adapting the extended normalisation process theory to examine the capability, contribution, potential and capacity of the users to implement MPDSR. Results The perinatal audit programme has sustained practice due to integration of activities into routine tasks (capability), clear value-add (contribution), individual and collective commitment (potential), and an enabling environment to implement (capacity). The complex interplay of actors, their relationships and context revealed the underlying individual-level and organisational-level factors that support sustainability, such as trust, credibility, facilitation and hierarchies. Local adaption and the broad social and structural resources were required for sustainability. Conclusion This study applied theory to explore factors that promote sustained practice of perinatal audit from the perspectives of the users. Efforts to promote and sustain MPDSR will benefit from overall good health governance, specific skill development, embedded activities, and valuing social processes related to implementation. More research using health policy and system approaches, including use of implementation theory, will further advance our understanding on how to support sustained MPDSR practice in other settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Kinney
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Anne-Marie Bergh
- Maternal and Infant Health Care Strategies Research Unit, Medical Research Council of South Africa, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Natasha Rhoda
- Department of Neonatology, Mowbray Maternity Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Robert Pattinson
- Maternal and Infant Health Care Strategies Research Unit, Medical Research Council of South Africa, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Asha George
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
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Asratie MH, Kassie BA, Belay DG. Prevalence of Contraceptive Non-use Due to Husbands/Partners Influence Among Married Women in Ethiopia: A Multilevel Analysis Using Demographic and Health Survey 2016 Data. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 4:876497. [PMID: 36303621 PMCID: PMC9580793 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2022.876497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In Ethiopia women with their husbands/partners are the decision-makers for contraceptives non-use suffered either due to the consequence of unintended pregnancy or due to the indirect impact of the secret use of contraceptives from their husbands/partners. Despite this challenge, there is a dearth of evidence about the magnitude of husbands/partners' decision-makers on contraceptives n non-used in Ethiopia. Objective This study was aimed to assess the magnitude of husbands'/partners decisions on contraceptive non-use and associated factors among married and non-contraceptive user reproductive-age women in Ethiopia. Methods The study was conducted based on Ethiopian demographic and health survey 2016 data which was a cross-sectional survey from 18 January 2016 to 27 June 2016. A total weighted sample size of 5,458 married and non-contraceptive user reproductive-age women were taken. A multilevel logistic regression model was used because of the data nature hierarchical, and variables with p ≤ 2 in the bivariable multilevel analysis were taken to multivariable multilevel analysis. Adjusted odds ratio with 95% CI was used to declare both the direction and strength of association and variables with p < 0.05 were considered statistically significant with the outcome variable. Results Husband decision-making power on contraceptive non-use was 10.44% [9.65–11.28%]. Husband's educational level higher (adjusted odds ratio (AOR = 2.6; CI 1.4–4.7), being Muslim, protestant, and others in religion (AOR = 2.4; CI 1.7–3.5), (AOR = 2.1; CI 1.4–3.1), (AOR = 4.5; CI 2.3–8.5), respectively, media exposure (AOR = 1.4; CI 1.0–1.8), husband wants more children (AOR = 3.7; CI 2.8–4.8), husband desire did not know (AOR = 1.4; CI 1.1–1.9), information about family planning (AOR = 0.6; CI 0.4–0.8), visited by field worker (AOR = 0.7; CI 0.5–0.9), visited health facility (AOR = 0.6; CI 0.4–0.7), and community husband education high (AOR = 1.6; CI 1.1–2.4) were statistically significant with husband decision making power on contraceptive non-use. Conclusion In Ethiopia 1 out of 10 married and non-pregnant women is influenced by their husband/partner's decision-making power of non-use contraceptives. Husband's educational level high, religion (Muslim, protestant, and others), media exposure, husband's desire for children (husband wants more and does not know), and community husband education were variables positively associated with the outcome variable; whereas having information about family planning, visited by field worker, and visited health facility were negatively associated husband decision making power for non-use contraceptive in Ethiopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melaku Hunie Asratie
- Department of Women's and Family Health, School of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
- *Correspondence: Melaku Hunie Asratie
| | - Belayneh Ayanaw Kassie
- Department of Women's and Family Health, School of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Daniel Gashaneh Belay
- Department of Human Anatomy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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20
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Maruf F, Tappis H, Stekelenburg J, van den Akker T. Quality of Maternal Death Documentation in Afghanistan: A Retrospective Health Facility Record Review. Front Glob Womens Health 2021; 2:610578. [PMID: 34816182 PMCID: PMC8593965 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2021.610578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To assess the quality of health facility documentation related to maternal deaths at health facilities in Afghanistan. Methods: Analysis of a subset of findings from the 2016 National Maternal and Newborn Health Quality of Care Assessment in Afghanistan. At each facility, maternity registers were reviewed to obtain data related to maternity caseload, and number and causes of maternal deaths in the year preceding the survey. Detailed chart reviews were conducted for up to three maternal deaths per facility. Analyses included completeness of charts, quality of documentation, and cause of death using WHO application of International Statistical Classification of Disease to deaths during pregnancy, childbirth and the puerperium. Key findings: Only 129/226 (57%) of facilities had mortality registers available for review on the day of assessment and 41/226 (18%) had charts documenting maternal deaths during the previous year. We reviewed 68 maternal death cases from the 41 facilities. Cause of death was not recorded in nearly half of maternal death cases reviewed. Information regarding mode of birth was missing in over half of the charts, and one third did not capture gestational age at time of death. Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and obstetric hemorrhage were the most common direct causes of death, followed by maternal sepsis and unanticipated complications of clinical management including anesthesia-related complications. Documented indirect causes of maternal deaths were anemia, cardiac arrest, kidney and hepatic failure. Charts revealed at least eight maternal deaths from indirect causes that were not captured in register books, indicating omission or misclassification of registered deaths. Conclusion: Considerable gaps in quality of recordkeeping exist in Afghanistan, including underreporting, misclassification and incompleteness. This hampers efforts to improve quality of maternal and newborn health data and priority setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzana Maruf
- Global Financing Facility, World Bank Group, Kabul, Afghanistan.,Faculty of Science, Athena Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Jelle Stekelenburg
- Global Health Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University Medical Centre Groningen/University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Leeuwarden Medical Centre, Leeuwarden, Netherlands
| | - Thomas van den Akker
- Faculty of Science, Athena Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, Netherlands
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21
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Kashililika CJ, Moshi FV. Implementation of maternal and perinatal death surveillance and response system among health facilities in Morogoro Region: a descriptive cross-sectional study. BMC Health Serv Res 2021; 21:1242. [PMID: 34789245 PMCID: PMC8596850 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-07268-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND When used effectively, the Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response (MPDSR) system can bring into reality a revolutionary victory in the fight against maternal and perinatal mortality from avoidable causes. This study aimed at determining the status of implementation of the system among health facilities in the Morogoro Region. METHOD This study was conducted among 38 health facilities from three districts of the Morogoro region, Tanzania, from April 27, 2020, to May 29, 2020. Quantitative data were collected through document review for MPDSR implementation status. The outcome was determined by using a unique scoring sheet with a total of 30 points. Facilities that scored less than 11 points were considered to be in the pre-implementation phase, those scored 11 to 17 were considered in the implementation phase, and those scored 18 to 30 were considered to be in the institutionalization phase. RESULTS The majority 20(53 %) of health facilities were in the pre-implementation phase, only 15(40 %) of assessed health facilities were in the implementation phase, and few 3(8 %) of health facilities were in institutionalization phase. There was a strong evidence that MPDSR implementation was more advanced in urban compared to rural health facilities (Fisher's test = 6.158, p = 0.049), hospitals compared to health centers (Fisher's test =14.609, p <0.001) and private and faith-based organization than public facilities (Fisher's test, 15.897 = p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS The study revealed that health facilities in Morogoro Region have not adequately implemented the MPDSR system. The majority of health facilities in rural settings and owned by the government showed poor MPDSR implementation and hence called for immediate action to rectify the situation. Strengthen MPDSR implementation, health facilities should be encouraged to adhere to the available MPDSR guidelines in the process of death reviews. Transparent systems should also be established to ensure thorough tracking and follow-up of recommendations evolving from MPDSR reviews. Health facilities should also consider integrating MPDSR to other quality improvement teams to maximize its efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Jacob Kashililika
- Department of Clinical Nursing School of Nursing and Public Health, The University of Dodoma, P.O. Box 259, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Fabiola Vincent Moshi
- Department of Nursing Management and Education, School of Nursing and Public Health, The University of Dodoma, P.O BOX 259, Dodoma, Tanzania
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22
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Melberg A, Teklemariam L, Moland KM, Aasen HS, Sisay MM. Juridification of maternal deaths in Ethiopia: a study of the Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response (MPDSR) system. Health Policy Plan 2021; 35:900-905. [PMID: 32594165 PMCID: PMC7553756 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czaa043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Juridification of maternal health care is on the rise globally, but little is known about its manifestations in resource constrained settings in sub-Saharan Africa. The Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response (MPDSR) system is implemented in Ethiopia to record and review all maternal and perinatal deaths, but underreporting of deaths remains a major implementation challenge. Fear of blame and malpractice litigation among health workers are important factors in underreporting, suggestive of an increased juridification of birth care. By taking MPDSR implementation as an entry point, this article aims to explore the manifestations of juridification of birth care in Ethiopia. Based on multi-sited fieldwork involving interviews, document analysis and observations at different levels of the Ethiopian health system, we explore responses to maternal deaths at various levels of the health system. We found an increasing public notion of maternal deaths being caused by malpractice, and a tendency to perceive the juridical system as the only channel to claim accountability for maternal deaths. Conflicts over legal responsibility for deaths influenced birth care provision. Both health workers and health bureaucrats strived to balance conflicting concerns related to the MPDSR system: reporting all deaths vs revealing failures in service provision. This dilemma encouraged the development of strategies to avoid personalized accountability for deaths. In this context, increased juridification impacted both care and reporting practices. Our study demonstrates the need to create a system that secures legal protection of health professionals reporting maternal deaths as prescribed and provides the public with mechanisms to claim accountability and high-quality birth care services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Melberg
- Centre for International Health, University of Bergen, Årstadveien 21, N-5007 Bergen, Norway
| | - Lidiya Teklemariam
- O'Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law, Georgetown University Law Center, USA
| | - Karen Marie Moland
- Centre for International Health, University of Bergen, Årstadveien 21, N-5007 Bergen, Norway
| | | | - Mitike Molla Sisay
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia
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23
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Kinney MV, Walugembe DR, Wanduru P, Waiswa P, George A. Maternal and perinatal death surveillance and response in low- and middle-income countries: a scoping review of implementation factors. Health Policy Plan 2021; 36:955-973. [PMID: 33712840 PMCID: PMC8227470 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czab011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal and perinatal death surveillance and response (MPDSR), or any form of maternal and/or perinatal death review or audit, aims to improve health services and pre-empt future maternal and perinatal deaths. With expansion of MPDSR across low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), we conducted a scoping review to identify and describe implementation factors and their interactions. The review adapted an implementation framework with four domains (intervention, individual, inner and outer settings) and three cross-cutting health systems lenses (service delivery, societal and systems). Literature was sourced from six electronic databases, online searches and key experts. Selection criteria included studies from LMIC published in English from 2004 to July 2018 detailing factors influencing implementation of MPDSR, or any related form of MPDSR. After a systematic screening process, data for identified records were extracted and analysed through content and thematic analysis. Of 1027 studies screened, the review focuses on 58 studies from 24 countries, primarily in Africa, that are mainly qualitative or mixed methods. The literature mostly examines implementation factors related to MPDSR as an intervention, and to its inner and outer setting, with less attention to the individuals involved. From a health systems perspective, almost half the literature focuses on the tangible inputs addressed by the service delivery lens, though these are often measured inadequately or through incomparable ways. Though less studied, the societal and health system factors show that people and their relationships, motivations, implementation climate and ability to communicate influence implementation processes; yet their subjective experiences and relationships are inadequately explored. MPDSR implementation contributes to accountability and benefits from a culture of learning, continuous improvement and accountability, but few have studied the complex interplay and change dynamics involved. Better understanding MPDSR will require more research using health policy and systems approaches, including the use of implementation frameworks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary V Kinney
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - David Roger Walugembe
- School of Health Studies and Faculty of Information and Media Studies, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Phillip Wanduru
- School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Peter Waiswa
- Global Health Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Asha George
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
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24
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Said A, Sirili N, Massawe S, Pembe AB, Hanson C, Malqvist M. Mismatched ambition, execution and outcomes: implementing maternal death surveillance and response system in Mtwara region, Tanzania. BMJ Glob Health 2021; 6:bmjgh-2021-005040. [PMID: 34020994 PMCID: PMC8144036 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2021-005040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Since 2015, Tanzania has been implementing the Maternal Death Surveillance and Response (MDSR) system. The system employs interactions of health providers and managers to identify, notify and review maternal deaths and recommend strategies for preventing further deaths. We aimed to analyse perceptions and experiences of health providers and managers in implementing the MDSR system. Methods An exploratory qualitative study was carried out with 30 purposively selected health providers and 30 health managers in four councils from the Mtwara region between June and July 2020. Key informant interviews and focus group discussions were used to collect data. Inductive thematic analysis was used to analyse data. Results Two main themes emerged from this study: ‘Accomplishing by ambitions’ and ‘A flawed system’. The themes suggest that health providers and managers have a strong desire to make the MDSR system work by making deliberate efforts to implement it. They reported working hard to timely notify, review death and implement action plans from meetings. Health providers and managers reported that MDSR has produced changes in care provision such as behavioural changes towards maternal care, increased accountability and policy changes. The system was however flawed by lack of training, organisational problems, poor coordination with other reporting and quality improvements systems, assigning blame and lack of motivation. Conclusion The implementation of the MDSR system in Tanzania faces systemic, contextual and individual challenges. However, our results indicate that health providers and managers are willing and committed to improve service delivery to avoid maternal deaths. Empowering health providers and managers by training and addressing the flaws will improve the system and quality of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Said
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, United Republic of
| | - Nathanael Sirili
- Department of Development Studies, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, United Republic of
| | - Siriel Massawe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, United Republic of
| | - Andrea B Pembe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, United Republic of
| | - Claudia Hanson
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Mats Malqvist
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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25
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Mukinda FK, George A, Van Belle S, Schneider H. Practice of death surveillance and response for maternal, newborn and child health: a framework and application to a South African health district. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e043783. [PMID: 33958337 PMCID: PMC8103944 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-043783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the functioning of maternal, perinatal, neonatal and child death surveillance and response (DSR) mechanisms at a health district level. DESIGN A framework of elements covering analysis of causes of death, and processes of review and response was developed and applied to the smallest unit of coordination (subdistrict) to evaluate DSR functioning. The evaluation design was a descriptive qualitative case study, based on observations of DSR practices and interviews. SETTING Rural South African health district (subdistricts and district office). PARTICIPANTS A purposive sample of 45 front-line health managers and providers involved with maternal, perinatal, neonatal and child DSR. The DSR mechanisms reviewed included a system of real-time death reporting (24 hours) and review (48 hours), a nationally mandated confidential enquiry into maternal death and regular facility and subdistrict mortality audit and response processes. PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURES Functioning of maternal, perinatal, neonatal and child DSR. RESULTS While DSR mechanisms were integrated into the organisational routines of the district, their functioning varied across subdistricts and between forms of DSR. Some forms of DSR, notably those involving maternal deaths, with external reporting and accounting, were more likely to trigger reactive fault-finding and sanctioning than other forms, which were more proactive in supporting evidence-based actions to prevent future deaths. These actions occurred at provider and system level, and to a limited extent, in communities. CONCLUSIONS This study provides an empirical example of the everyday practice of DSR mechanisms at a district level. It assesses such practice based on a framework of elements and enabling organisational processes that may be of value in similar settings elsewhere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fidele Kanyimbu Mukinda
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Asha George
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sara Van Belle
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Helen Schneider
- School of Public Health, South African Medical Research Council (MRC)/Health Services and Systems Unit, Cape Town, South Africa
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Geze Tenaw S, Girma Fage S, Assefa N, Kenay Tura A. Determinants of maternal near-miss in private hospitals in eastern Ethiopia: A nested case–control study. WOMEN'S HEALTH 2021; 17:17455065211061949. [PMID: 34844476 PMCID: PMC8640294 DOI: 10.1177/17455065211061949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Objective: Maternal near-miss refers to a woman who nearly died but survived complications in pregnancy, childbirth, or within 42 days of termination of pregnancy. The study of maternal near-miss has become essential for improving the quality of obstetric care. The objective of this study was to identify the determinants of maternal near-miss among women admitted to major private hospitals in eastern Ethiopia. Method: An unmatched nested case–control study was conducted in major private hospitals in eastern Ethiopia from 5 March to 31 March 2020. Cases were women who fulfilled the sub-Saharan African maternal near-miss criteria and those admitted to the same hospitals but discharged without any complications under the sub-Saharan African maternal near-miss tool were controls. For each case, three corresponding women were randomly selected as controls. Factors associated with maternal near-misses were analyzed using binary and multiple logistic regressions with an adjusted odds ratio along with a 95% confidence interval. Finally, p-value < 0.05 was considered as a cut-off point for the significant association. Results: A total of 432 women (108 cases and 324 controls) participated in the study. History of prior cesarean section (AOR = 4.33; 95% CI = 2.36–7.94), anemia in index pregnancy (AOR = 4.38; 95% CI = 2.43–7.91), being ⩾ 35 years of age (AOR = 2.94; 95% CI = 1.37–6.24), not attending antenatal care (AOR = 3.11; 95% CI = 1.43–6.78), and history of chronic medical disorders (AOR = 2.18; 95% CI = 1.03–4.59) were independently associated with maternal near-miss. Conclusion: Maternal age ⩾ 35 years, had no antenatal care, had prior cesarean section, being anemic in index pregnancy, and have history of chronic medical disorders were the determinants of maternal near-miss. Improving maternal near-misses requires strengthening antenatal care (including supplementation of iron and folic acid to reduce anemia) and prioritizing women with a history of chronic medical illnesses. Interventions for preventing primary cesarean sections are crucial in this era of the cesarean epidemic to minimize its effect on maternal near-miss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shegaw Geze Tenaw
- Department of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wolkite University, Wolkite, Ethiopia
| | - Sagni Girma Fage
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Nega Assefa
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Abera Kenay Tura
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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27
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Heemelaar S, Josef M, Diener Z, Chipeio M, Stekelenburg J, van den Akker T, Mackenzie S. Maternal near-miss surveillance, Namibia. Bull World Health Organ 2020; 98:548-557. [PMID: 32773900 PMCID: PMC7411319 DOI: 10.2471/blt.20.251371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To analyse and improve the Namibian maternity care system by implementing maternal near-miss surveillance during 1 October 2018 and 31 March 2019, and identifying the challenges and benefits of such data collection. Methods From the results of an initial feasibility study, we adapted the World Health Organization’s criteria defining a maternal near miss to the Namibian health-care system. We visited most (27 out of 35) participating facilities before implementation and provided training on maternal near-miss identification and data collection. We visited all facilities at the end of the surveillance period to verify recorded data and to give staff the opportunity to provide feedback. Findings During the 6-month period, we recorded 37 106 live births, 298 maternal near misses (8.0 per 1000 live births) and 23 maternal deaths (62.0 per 100 000 live births). We observed that obstetric haemorrhage and hypertensive disorders were the most common causes of maternal near misses (each 92/298; 30.9%). Of the 49 maternal near misses due to pregnancies with abortive outcomes, ectopic pregnancy was the most common cause (36/298; 12.1%). Fetal or neonatal outcomes were poor; only 50.3% (157/312) of the infants born to maternal near-miss mothers went home with their mother. Conclusion Maternal near-miss surveillance is a useful intervention to identify within-country challenges, such as lack of access to caesarean section or hysterectomy. Knowledge of these challenges can be used by policy-makers and programme managers in the development of locally tailored targeted interventions to improve maternal outcome in their setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steffie Heemelaar
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Katutura State Hospital, PO Box 86237, Eros, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Mirjam Josef
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Katutura State Hospital, PO Box 86237, Eros, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Zoe Diener
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of North Carolina, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Melody Chipeio
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Katutura State Hospital, PO Box 86237, Eros, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Jelle Stekelenburg
- Department of Health Science, Global Health, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | | | - Shonag Mackenzie
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
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Tura AK, Fage SG, Ibrahim AM, Mohamed A, Ahmed R, Gure T, Zwart J, van den Akker T. Beyond No Blame: Practical Challenges of Conducting Maternal and Perinatal Death Reviews in Eastern Ethiopia. GLOBAL HEALTH, SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2020; 8:150-154. [PMID: 32461200 PMCID: PMC7326520 DOI: 10.9745/ghsp-d-19-00366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Lack of a professional body to address patients’ complaints regarding quality of health care and absence of clear medicolegal guidance hamper maternal death reviews in Ethiopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abera Kenay Tura
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Sagni Girma Fage
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Alexander Mohamed Ibrahim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hiwot Fana Specialized University Hospital, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Ahmed Mohamed
- Department of Paediatrics, Hiwot Fana Specialized University Hospital, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Redwan Ahmed
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hiwot Fana Specialized University Hospital, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Tadesse Gure
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hiwot Fana Specialized University Hospital, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Joost Zwart
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Deventer Ziekenhuis, Deventer, Netherlands
| | - Thomas van den Akker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
- Athena Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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