Women's Satisfaction of Maternity Care in Nepal and Its Correlation with Intended Future Utilization

Individual, Community, and Health Facility Predictors of Postnatal Care Utilization in Rural Tanzania: A Multilevel Analysis

INTRODUCTION

Postnatal care (PNC) is an underused service in the continuum of care for mothers and infants in sub-Saharan Africa. There is little evidence on health facility characteristics that influence PNC utilization. Understanding PNC use in the context of individual, community, and health facility characteristics may help in the development of programs for increased use.

METHODS

We analyzed data from 4,353 women with recent births in Kigoma Region, Tanzania, and their use of PNC (defined as at least 1 checkup in a health facility in the region within 42 days of delivery). We used a mixed-effects multilevel logistic regression analysis to explain PNC use while accounting for household, individual, and community characteristics from a regionwide population-based reproductive health survey and for distance to and adequacy of proximal health facilities from a health facility assessment.

RESULTS

PNC utilization rate was low (15.9%). Women had significantly greater odds of PNC if they had a high level of decision-making autonomy (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.56; 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.11, 2.17); had a companion at birth (aOR: 1.57; 95% CI=1.19, 2.07); had cesarean delivery (aOR: 2.27; 95% CI=1.47, 3.48); resided in Kasulu district (aOR: 3.28; 95% CI=1.94, 5.52); or resided in a community that had at least 1 adequate health facility within 5 km (aOR: 2.15; 95% CI=1.06, 3.88).

CONCLUSION

Women's decision-making autonomy and presence of companionship at birth, as well as proximity to a health facility with adequate infrastructure, equipment, and workforce, were associated with increased PNC use. More efforts toward advocating for the health benefits of PNC using multiple channels and increasing quality of care in health facilities, including companionship at birth, can increase utilization rates.

Association between the person-centered maternity care experience and mental health after delivery in urban and rural Dhading, Nepal: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Person-centered maternity care is a component of quality care, which includes effective communication, respect, and dignity. Supportive care has a positive effect on mothers' perinatal experience. In contrast, negative childbirth experiences can cause psychological problems. However, the impact of person-centered maternity care experience on mothers' mental health after delivery remains unknown. Therefore, in this study, we examined the association between person-centered maternity care experience at healthcare facilities and maternal mental health after delivery among Nepali women.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study in urban and rural areas in Dhading District, Nepal. Participants were women who gave birth at public healthcare facilities, and their baby's age was between 1 and 12 months. After purposively selecting the target areas, we recruited the women from July to August 2019 and interviewed them using questionnaires. We conducted multiple regression analyses to analyze the association between delivery care experience and depressive symptoms and the association between delivery care experience and mental well-being.

RESULTS

In total, 595 women were included in the data analysis. The experience of better person-centered maternity care was associated with lower depressive symptom scores in urban (unstandardized coefficient [B]= - 0.09, p < 0.001) and rural areas (B= - 0.10, p < 0.001). Moreover, the experience of better person-centered maternity care was associated with higher mental well-being scores in both urban (B= 0.30, p < 0.001) and rural areas (B= 0.15, p = 0.017).

CONCLUSIONS

Person-centered maternity care was associated with lower depressive symptom scores and higher mental well-being, regardless of the setting in Nepal. Person-centered maternity care during childbirth can potentially improve mental health after delivery. Maternity care should be improved with more attention to person-centered maternity care aspects.

Maternal satisfaction on delivery care services and associated factors at public hospitals in eastern Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Maternal healthcare services satisfaction has been widely recognized as a critical indicator of quality in healthcare systems. Thus this study aimed to assess maternal satisfaction with delivery care services.

METHODS

An institutional-based cross-sectional study design was utilized among 400 randomly selected postnatal mothers from 1 to 30 February 2018. The data were entered into EpiData version 4.2.0 and computed using SPSS version 20. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were done using binary logistic regression to identify associations of factors.

RESULTS

A total of 400 participants were included, with a response rate of 98.8%. The overall delivery services satisfaction level of mothers was 80% (95% confidence interval [CI] 75.8 to 84.0). Delivery through caesarean section (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.85 [95% CI 1.21 to 6.72]), privacy assured (AOR 3.73 [95% CI 1.79 to 7.75]), duration of labour (AOR 3.03 [95% CI 1.50 to 6.14]), waiting time (AOR 4.31 [95% CI 2.24 to 8.29]) and foetal outcome (AOR 4.33 [95% CI 1.94 to 9.66]) were associated with satisfaction with delivery care services.

CONCLUSION

The study revealed that four-fifths of mothers were satisfied with the delivery care services provided in public hospitals. Much effort is needed from hospital administrators and health professionals to improve delivery services satisfaction by minimizing waiting time, maintaining privacy and securing waiting areas.

Investigation of technical quality of antenatal and perinatal services in a nationally representative sample of health facilities in Nepal

Background

Access to routine antenatal and perinatal services is improved in the last two decades in Nepal. However, gaps remain in coverage and quality of care delivered from the health facilities. This study investigated the delivery of technical quality antenatal and perinatal services from health facilities and their associated determinants in Nepal.

Methods

Data for this study were derived from the Nepal Health Facility Survey 2015. The World Health Organization's Service Availability and Readiness Assessment framework was adopted to assess the technical quality of antenatal and perinatal services of health facilities. Outcome variables included technical quality scores of i) 269 facilities providing antenatal services and ii) 109 facilities providing childbirth and postnatal care services (perinatal care). Technical quality scores of health facilities were estimated adapting recommended antenatal and perinatal interventions. Independent variables included locations and types of health facilities and their management functions (e.g., supervision). We conducted a linear regression analysis to identify the determinants of better technical quality of health services in health facilities. Beta coefficients were exponentiated into odds ratios (ORs) and reported with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The significance level was set at p-value < 0.05.

Results

The mean score of the technical quality of health facilities for each outcome variable (antenatal and perinatal services) was 0.55 (out of 1.00). Compared to province one, facilities of Madhesh province had 4% lower odds (adjusted OR = 0.96; 95%CI: 0.92, 0.99) of providing better quality antenatal services, while health facilities of Gandaki province had higher odds of providing better quality antenatal services (aOR = 1.05; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.10). Private facilities had higher odds (aOR = 1.13; 95% CI: 1.03, 1.23) of providing better quality perinatal services compared to public facilities.

Conclusions

Private facilities provide better quality antenatal and perinatal health services than public facilities, while health facilities of Madhesh province provide poor quality perinatal services. Health system needs to implement tailored strategies, including recruiting health workers, supervision and onsite coaching and access to necessary equipment and medicine in the facilities of Madhesh province. Health system inputs (trained human resources, equipment and supplies) are needed in the public facilities. Extending the safe delivery incentive programme to the privately managed facilities could also improve access to better quality health services in Nepal.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of women's satisfaction with skilled delivery care and the associated factors in Ethiopia

Evidence of variation in maternity health service practices has increased the government's interest in quantifying and advancing the quality of institutional delivery care in the developing world, including Ethiopia. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to update and provide more representative data on women's satisfaction with skilled delivery care and the associated factors in Ethiopia. This systematic review and meta-analysis followed the Preferred Reporting Items 2015 guideline. We searched PubMed/Medline, SCOPUS, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar electronic databases for all 36 included studies. The pooled prevalence of women's satisfaction with skilled delivery care and the associated factors were estimated using a random-effects model. Subgroup analysis and meta-regression were performed to identify the source of heterogeneity. Furthermore, publication bias was checked using eggers and funnel plots. All statistical analyses were performed using STATA version 14.0 software. The pooled prevalence of women's satisfaction with skilled delivery care was 67.31 with 95% confidence interval (60.18-74.44). Wanted pregnancy (adjusted odds ratio = 2.86, 95% confidence interval: (2.24-3.64)), having a plan to deliver at a health facility (adjusted odds ratio = 2.09, 95% confidence interval: (1.42-3.09)), access to ambulance service (adjusted odds ratio = 1.52, 95% confidence interval: (1.00-2.31)), waiting time < 15 min (adjusted odds ratio = 3.66, 95% confidence interval: (2.51-5.33)), privacy assured (adjusted odds ratio = 3.94, 95% confidence interval: (2.23-6.94)), short duration of labour < 12 hr (adjusted odds ratio = 2.55, 95% confidence interval: (1.58-4.12)), proper labour pain management (adjusted odds ratio = 3.01, 95% confidence interval: (1.46-6.22)), and normal newborn outcome (adjusted odds ratio = 3.94, 95% confidence interval: (2.17-7.15)) were associated with women's satisfaction. Almost two-thirds of women were satisfied with skilled delivery care. In comparison, the remaining one-third were not satisfied with the care. The quality of intrapartum care, unwanted pregnancy, lack of ambulance services, prolonged duration of labour, poor labour pain management, and complicated newborn outcome were factors affecting women's satisfaction with skilled delivery care in Ethiopia. Therefore, strategies need to be developed to increase the satisfaction level by considering the abovementioned factors during routine delivery care.

Utilisation of quality antenatal, delivery and postnatal care services in Nepal: An analysis of Service Provision Assessment

BACKGROUND

Nepal has improved access and utilisation of routine maternal and newborn health (MNH) services. Despite improved access to routine MNH services such as antenatal care (ANC), and delivery and postnatal care (PNC) services, the burden of maternal and neonatal deaths in Nepal remains high. Most of those deaths could be prevented by improving utilisation of evidence-informed clinical MNH interventions. However, little is known on determinants of utilisation of such clinical MNH interventions in health facilities (HFs). This study investigated the determinants of utilisation of technical quality MNH services in Nepal.

METHODS

This study used data from the 2015 Nepal Services Provision Assessment. A total of 523 pregnant and 309 postpartum women were included for the analysis of utilisation of technical quality of ANC, and delivery and PNC services, respectively. Outcome variables were utilisation of better quality i) ANC services, and ii) delivery and PNC services while independent variables included features of HFs and health workers, and demographic characteristics of pregnant and postpartum women. Binomial logistic regression was conducted to identify the determinants associated with utilisation of quality MNH services. The odds ratio with 95% confidence interval (CIs) were reported at the significance level of p < 0.05 (two-tailed).

RESULTS

Women utilised quality ANC services if they attended facilities with better HF capacity (aOR = 2.12;95% CI: 1.03, 4.35). Women utilised better quality delivery and PNC services from private HFs compared to public HFs (aOR = 2.63; 95% CI: 1.14, 6.08). Women utilised better technical quality ANC provided by nursing staff compared to physicians (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) =2.89; 95% CI: 1.33, 6.29), and from staff supervised by a higher authority compared to those not supervised (aOR = 1.71; 95% CI: 1.01, 2.92). However, compared to province one, women utilised poor quality delivery and PNC services from HFs in province two (aOR = 0.15; 95% CI: 0.03, 0.63).

CONCLUSIONS

Women utilised quality MNH services at facilities with better HF capacity, service provided by nursing staff, and attended at supervised HFs/health workers. Provincial and municipal governments require strengthening HF capacities (e.g., supply equipment, medicines, supplies), recruiting trained nurse-midwives, and supervising health workers.

A cross-sectional study to evaluate antenatal care service provision in 3 hospitals in Nepal

BACKGROUND

OBJECTIVE

STUDY DESIGN

RESULTS

CONCLUSION

Trend and Sociodemographic Correlates of Cesarean Section Utilization in Nepal: Evidence from Demographic and Health Surveys 2006-2016

BACKGROUND

Addressing inequalities in accessing emergency obstetric care is crucial for reducing the maternal mortality ratio. This study was undertaken to examine the time trends and sociodemographic correlates of cesarean section (CS) utilization in Nepal between 2006 and 2016. Methods. Data from the Nepal Demographic and Health Surveys (NDHS) 2006, 2011, and 2016 were sourced for this study. Women who had a live birth in the last five years of the survey were the unit of analysis for this study. Absolute and relative inequalities in CS utilization were expressed in terms of rate difference and rate ratios, respectively. We used multivariable regression models to assess the CS rate by background sociodemographic characteristics of women.

RESULTS

Age and parity-adjusted CS rates were found to have increased almost threefold (from 3.2%, 95% CI: 2.1-4.3 in 2006 to 10.5%; 95% CI: 8.9-11.9 in 2016) over the decade. In 2016, women from mountain region (3.0%), those from the lowest wealth quintile (2.4%), and those living in Karnali province (2.4%) had CS rate below 5%. Whereas women from the highest wealth quintile (25.1%), with higher education (21.2%), and those delivering in private facilities (37.1%) had CS rate above 15%. Women from the highest wealth quintile (OR-3.3; 95% CI: 1.6-7.0) compared to women from the lowest wealth quintile and those delivered in private/NGO-run facilities (OR-3.6; 95% CI: 2.7-4.9) compared to women delivering in public facilities were more than three times more likely to deliver by CS.

CONCLUSION

To improve maternal and newborn health, strategies need to be revised to address the underuse of CS among poor, those living in mountain region and Province 2, Lumbini province, Karnali province, and Sudhurpaschim province. Simultaneously, there is a pressing need for policies, guidelines, and continuous monitoring of CS rates to reduce overuse among rich women, women with higher education, and those giving childbirth in private facilities.

Descriptive survey of women's childbirth experiences in two state hospitals in KwaZulu-Natal

Background

Giving birth is one of the most important events in a woman’s life and is a highly individualistic and unique experience.

Objectives

The study aimed to describe women’s childbirth experiences in two state hospitals in KwaZulu-Natal.

Method

A non-experimental, quantitative, descriptive survey of low-risk mothers was conducted in two state hospitals by using the Childbirth Experience Questionnaire (CEQ).

Results

With a response rate of 96%, 201 questionnaires were completed and returned. The highest mean score of the four dimensions of the CEQ was for the dimension of Professional Support (3.1). The results of the individual dimension items scoring the highest positive response were: I felt that I handled the situation well (147; 74%) (Own Capacity); I felt very well cared for by my midwife (165; 82%) (Professional Support); 151 respondents (76%) scored the item My impression of the team’s medical skill made me feel secure as the highest positive experience (Perceived Safety); and I felt I could have a say in the choice of pain relief (105; 52%) (Participation). The relationship between demographic variables (age, level of education, parity, antenatal clinic attendance, induction of labour, augmentation and duration of labour) and respondents’ scores of the CEQ dimensions was calculated, and only the dimension of Perceived Safety and duration of labour (≥ 12 hours) were found to be significant (p = 0.026).

Conclusion

From the women perspectives, the study results described childbirth experience as multi-dimensional experience and subjective. Both positive and negative experiences coexisted in all dimensions of the CEQ, with the dimension of Professional Support scoring the highest positive response. To maintain a positive birth experience, the study suggests that women should be involved and equipped with knowledge on the process of childbirth.

Women's experiences of mistreatment during childbirth and their satisfaction with care: findings from a multicountry community-based study in four countries

Introduction

Experiences of care and satisfaction are intrinsically linked, as user’s experiences of care may directly impact satisfaction, or indirectly impact user’s expectations and values. Both experiences of care and satisfaction are important to measure so that quality can be monitored and improved. Globally, women experience mistreatment during childbirth at facilities; however, there is limited evidence exploring the mistreatment and women’s satisfaction with care during childbirth.

Methods

This is a secondary analysis of a cross-sectional survey within the WHO study ‘How women are treated during facility-based childbirth’ exploring the mistreatment of women during childbirth in Ghana, Guinea, Myanmar and Nigeria. Women’s experiences of mistreatment and satisfaction with care during childbirth was explored. Multivariable logistic regression modelling was conducted to evaluate the association between mistreatment, women’s overall satisfaction with the care they received, and whether they would recommend the facility to others.

Results

2672 women were included in this analysis. Despite over one-third of women reporting experience of mistreatment (35.4%), overall satisfaction for services received and recommendation of the facility to others was high, 88.4% and 90%, respectively. Women who reported experiences of mistreatment were more likely to report lower satisfaction with care: women were more likely to be satisfied if they did not experience verbal abuse (adjusted OR (AOR) 4.52, 95% CI 3.50 to 5.85), or had short waiting times (AOR 5.12, 95% CI 3.94 to 6.65). Women who did not experience any physical or verbal abuse or discrimination were more likely to recommend the facility to others (AOR 3.89, 95% CI 2.98 to 5.06).

Conclusion

Measuring both women’s experiences and their satisfaction with care are critical to assess quality and provide actionable evidence for quality improvement. These measures can enable health systems to identify and respond to root causes contributing to measures of satisfaction.

What determines client satisfaction on labor and delivery service in Ethiopia? systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction

The uptake of Health services, maternal and newborn health care outcomes are dictated by the satisfaction of clients on the service provided. Client satisfaction is one of the vital indicators to measure the quality of service. However, it is not well addressed and little evidence is existed in Ethiopia. Therefore, the purpose of this systematic review aimed to assess the prevalence and determinant of client satisfaction on labor and delivery service in Ethiopia.

Methods

This study has included published and unpublished articles. The main databases PubMed, Embase, EBSCO, Medline, CINHAL, Poplin, and the search engine like Google and Google scholar were used from June1-30/2020. Studies with observational study design which are conducted in English language and met the eligibility criteria were included in the review. Meta-analyses with random effects were performed. Data synthesis and statistical analysis were conducted using OpenMeta and CMA version 2 software.

Results

The pooled prevalence of client satisfaction on labor and delivery service in Ethiopia was 73.5% [95% CI [64.9%, 82.1%]. The pooled odds ratio showed a negative association between client satisfaction on labour and delivery service with Promptness of care [OR = 0.25; 95% CI: (0.18, 0.34), P = 0.0001], Free service charge [OR = 0.70; 95% CI: (0.57, 0.86), P < 0.0007], Privacy during examination [OR = 0.25; 95% CI: (0.10, 0.64), P < 0.004], Respectful maternal care [OR = 0.40;95% CI: (0.19, 0.83), P = 0.01], Plan to delivered at health facility [OR = 0.49; 95% CI: (0.37, 0.66), P < 0.00001] and ANC follow-up [OR = 0.39; 95% CI: 0.24, 0.63, P < 0.0001].

Conclusions

This review revealed that client satisfaction on labor and delivery service in Ethiopia was 73.5%. Besides poor care of providers on the antepartum, intrapartum and lack compassionate and respectful care affects client satisfaction on labor and delivery service in Ethiopia.

Policies and actions to reduce maternal mortality in Nepal: perspectives of key informants

Nepal made impressive progress in reducing maternal mortality until 2015. Since then, progress has stagnated, coinciding with Nepal’s transition to a federation with significant devolution in health management. In this context, we conducted key informant interviews (KII) to solicit perspectives on policies responsible for the reduction in maternal mortality, reasons for the stagnation in maternal mortality, and interventions needed for a faster decline in maternal mortality. We conducted 36 KIIs and analysed transcripts using standard framework analysis methods. The key informants identified three policies as the most important for maternal mortality reduction in Nepal: the Safe Motherhood Policy, Skilled Birth Attendant Policy, and Safe Abortion Policy. They opined that policies were adequate, but implementation was weak and ineffective, and strategies needed to be tailored to the local context. A range of health system factors, including poor quality of care, were identified by key informants as underlying the stagnation in Nepal’s maternal mortality ratio, as well as a few demand-side aspects. According to key informants, to reduce maternal deaths further Nepal needs to ensure that the current family planning, birth preparedness, financial incentives, free delivery services, abortion care, and community post-partum care programmes reach marginalised and vulnerable communities. Facilities offering comprehensive emergency obstetric care need to be accessible, and in hill and mountain areas, access could be supported by establishing maternity waiting homes. Social accountability can be strengthened through social audits, role models, and empowerment of health and management committees.

Women's Satisfaction and Its Associated Factors with Antenatal Care Services at Public Health Facilities: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background

Regular monitoring and evaluation improves the quality of health services. Client satisfaction is an indicator of the quality of a health service. Poor maternal satisfaction with antenatal care services has negative outcomes. Currently, women’s satisfaction with antenatal care services is below standard in low-income countries such as Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to assess women’s satisfaction and its associated factors with antenatal care services.

Methods

A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted from September 23 to October 23, 2019. A total of 405 women were involved in the study. A systematic random sampling technique was used. The data were coded manually and checked visually for completeness. The data were entered using Epi Info version 7 and exported to SPSS version 20 for analysis. Descriptive statistic was computed. Thechi-squared test was performed and factors associated with women’s satisfaction with antenatal care services were selected for multiple logistic regression at a probability value (p-value) of <0.2 in the chi-squared analysis. Statistically significant associated factors were identified at a p-value of ≤0.05, and with adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals.

Results

Among 405 participants, 53.8% (95% CI=48.7–59%) of women were satisfied with the antenatal care services. Age of mothers (AOR=6.04, 95% CI=2.3–15.9), advice on danger signs in pregnancy (AOR=4.53, 95% CI=2.7–7.52), previous antenatal care visits (AOR=3.8, 95% CI=2.0–7.52), respectful maternity care (AOR=8.2, 95% CI=3.3–20.4), and planned pregnancy (AOR=2.8, 95% CI=1.6–4.8) were statistically significantly associated with women’s satisfaction with antenatal care services.

Conclusion

About half of the participants were satisfied with the antenatal care services. Age of participants, respectful maternity care, advice on danger signs in pregnancy, previous antenatal care visits, and planned pregnancy were found to be predictors of women’s satisfaction with antenatal care services.

Maternal satisfaction among vaginal and cesarean section delivery care services in Bahir Dar city health facilities, Northwest Ethiopia: a facility-based comparative cross-sectional study

Background

Mothers’ delivery care satisfaction is one of the indicators to monitor the quality of health care provision. However, there is only limited information in this regard in Ethiopia, particularly in the study area. Therefore, the study aimed to determine the level of maternal satisfaction and the determinants among vaginal and cesarean section delivery care in Bahir Dar city health facilities.

Methods

Facility-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted from April to May 2018. Using systematic random sampling, a total of 896 recently delivered mothers were interviewed. The collected data were entered into the Epi-Data soft and then exported to SPSS Version 20.0 for analysis. Descriptive statistics were computed and Logistic regression model was used to identify the association between explanatory and outcome variables. Adjusted Odds Ratio with 95% CI was used to measure the strength of the association between these variables. The model fitness was checked using Hosmer and Lemeshow goodness of fit (P > 0.05). A p-value < 0.2 at bivariate analysis was considered for variables to be candidates for multivariable logistic regression analysis. Variables with a p-value of < 0.05 at multivariate analysis were considered as statistically significant predictors of mothers’ satisfaction.

Results

A total of 894 recently delivered mothers participated in the study yielded a response of 99.8%. 448 (50.1%) mothers delivered vaginally whereas 446 (25.8%) via cesarean section. The overall mean age of respondents was 26.60 (± 4.88) years. The total maternal delivery care service satisfaction level was 61.4%. More mothers were satisfied with vaginal delivery care, 65.6% (95% CI: 56.97, 74.22%) than cesarean section, 57.2% (95% CI: 48.19, 66.2%). Maternal education, residence, current delivery care planned, maternal HIV status, the gender of health care provider and gave birth in a private health facility were significantly associated with vaginal delivery care satisfaction. Whereas, maternal education, residence, current delivery care planned, antenatal care attended, gender of health care provider was significantly associated with cesarean section delivery care satisfaction.

Conclusions

The overall maternal delivery care service satisfaction level was low as, per the national standard, and there is a great discrepancy in maternal satisfaction level between vaginal and cesarean section delivery care services.

Maternal Satisfaction towards Childhood Immunization Service and Its Associated Factors in Wadla District, North Wollo, Ethiopia, 2019

Background. Maternal satisfaction is considered one of the most frequently used indicators to measure the quality and efficiency of childhood immunization service. Evaluating maternal satisfaction towards childhood immunization service is very relevant as it likely affects the clinical and revisit adherence, service quality, and its coverage. In countries like Ethiopia, where childhood immunization coverage is below average (39%) with low maternal satisfaction on the service, identifying factors associated with maternal satisfaction is very critical. Despite the acknowledgement made on the importance of maternal satisfaction for the successful provision of child immunization services, there is limited knowledge in Ethiopia on its contributing factors. Objective. The aim of this study was to assess maternal satisfaction towards childhood immunization service and its associated factors among mothers’ having children aged less than 1 year in Wadla district, North Wollo, Ethiopia, 2019. Methods. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 682 mothers from March to April 2019 in Wadla district, North Wollo, Ethiopia. A two-stage cluster sampling technique was used to select households of the study participants. A pretested interviewer-administered structured questionnaire was used. During the period of data collection, every questionnaire was cross-checked and the collected data were checked for completeness and consistency on a daily basis. Then, the cleaned data was coded and entered in to Epi Info software version 7.2.2.2 and exported to SPSS software version 23.0 for analysis. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analysies were done to identify variables having a significant association with maternal satisfaction. Variables with a p value of ≤ 0.05 and adjusted odds ratio with 95% CI were considered having a statistically significant association during multivariable logistic regression analysis. Then, the findings were presented using tables, graphs, and charts. Result. The overall proportion of maternal satisfaction towards childhood immunization service was found to be 68.2% [95%CI=64.7%−71.7%]. The finding revealed that attending secondary education [adjusted odds ratio AOR=0.26; 95%CI=0.13−0.53], being divorced [AOR=0.46; 95%CI=0.23−0.91], and having favorable attitude towards child immunization [AOR=1.58; 95%CI=1.05–2.33] were found to be significantly associated with maternal satisfaction. Furthermore, the multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that short waiting time before receiving service [AOR=1.83; 95%CI=1.21−2.79], greeting from care providers, [AOR=5.69; 95%CI=3.36−9.65], having information about the current vaccine [AOR=2.03; 95%CI=1.25−3.32], dose of vaccine [AOR=2.24; 95%CI=1.40−3.58], and next immunization schedule [AOR=3.21; 95%CI=1.70−6.04] were also significantly associated with maternal satisfaction towards childhood immunization services. Conclusion and Recommendation. Generally, the study showed that more than two-thirds of the mothers were satisfied by the immunization service rendered. The level of satisfaction was higher with respect to the health workers’ relationship, communication, and immunization system aspects. However, more efforts need to be put towards improving the service waiting time for immunization, and provision of health information and communication is also recommended to enhance the level of favorable attitude among mothers towards childhood immunization services.

Women's satisfaction with existing labour and delivery services in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the pooled prevalence of women's satisfaction with existing labour and delivery services in Ethiopia.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, Hinari, Google Scholar and web of science electronic databases were searched for the study. This meta-analysis included nineteen cross-sectional studies. Cochrane I² statistics were used to check the heterogeneity of the studies. Subgroup and sensitivity analysis were conducted with the evidence of heterogeneity. Egger test with funnel plot were used to investigate publication bias.

RESULT

Nineteen studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. The overall prevalence of women's satisfaction with existing labour and delivery services in Ethiopia was 70.54% (95% CI 60.94 to 80.15). Having informal education of the women (adjusted OR (AOR)=2.19; 95% CI 1.47 to 3.25), time to be seen by the healthcare providers within 20 min (AOR=2.97; 95% CI 2.11 to 4.19), receiving free service (AOR=5.01; 95% CI 2.87 to 8.75), keeping women privacy (AOR=2.84; 95% CI 1.46 to 5.55), planned delivery in the health institution (AOR=2.85; 95% CI 1.99 to 4.07), duration of labour within 12 hours (AOR=2.55; 95% CI 1.70 to 3.81) and have not antenatal care follow-up (AOR=4.03; 95% CI 2.21 to 7.35) were factors associated with women satisfaction with labour and delivery services in Ethiopia.

CONCLUSION

The pooled prevalence of women's satisfaction with existing labour and delivery services was high. Informal education of the women, antenatal care follow-up, planned delivery in the health institution, keeping women privacy, getting free service, time to be seen by the healthcare providers and duration of labour were factors associated with women's satisfaction during labour and delivery services. This finding is important to design strategic policies and to prevent emergency neonatal and women complications during the childbirth and postpartum periods.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42020149217.

Mother's satisfaction with the existing labor and delivery care services at public health facilities in West Shewa zone, Oromia region, Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Mothers' satisfaction with care during childbirth is indicators of the quality care which affects skilled birth attendance. Negative client's experiences at health facilities cause them to delay or avoid seeking care, which highlights services providers should consider and act on the expectations and experiences of women and their families. Though there are few studies conducted in Ethiopia on maternal satisfaction with Labor and Delivery (LAD) services, there is no study conducted in the study area. Therefore the study aims to assess the mother's satisfaction with existing LAD services and associated factors at all levels of health care in the West Shewa zone.

METHODS

An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted at public health facilities in West Shewa zone, Central Ethiopia. A systematic sampling technique was used to select 560 respondents by using their delivery registration number and data were collected through face to face interview. Mothers were considered satisfied if they responded satisfied/very satisfied with 75% or more of the questions assessing satisfaction. Binary and multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify associated factors.

RESULTS

The overall proportion of mothers who were satisfied with the current LAD care services were 60.8%. The main areas of dissatisfaction were; accessibility and cleanness of toilets/shower 72.6%, overall cleanness of the facility/including waiting-area 40.1% and presence of support a person during birth 38.0%. The presence of cultural practices (AOR = 2.5), discussion on the place of delivery with health worker during ANC (AOR = 1.75), providers asks for consent before procedure (AOR = 2.77), encouraging companion to remain with mother (AOR = 2.22), never leave mother alone or unattended (AOR = 2.56), giving periodic updates on status and progress of labor (AOR = 2.04) and explaining what is being done and to expect during LAD (AOR = 2.20) were factors identified to be significantly associated with satisfaction on LAD services.

CONCLUSION

The overall satisfaction of mothers with LAD services at public health facilities in the West-Shewa zone was relatively low. Presence of cultural practices, discussion on the place of delivery, asking for consent before the procedure, encouraging companion to remain with mothers and explaining what is being done were factors identified. Therefore, all stakeholders have to emphatically work on those identified factors to improve mothers' satisfaction with LAD services.

"I am alive; my baby is alive": Understanding reasons for satisfaction and dissatisfaction with maternal health care services in the context of user fee removal policy in Nigeria

Background

The main policy thrust in many sub-Saharan Africa countries’ aim at addressing maternal mortality is the elimination of the user fee for maternal healthcare services. While several studies have documented the effect of the user fee removal policy on the use of maternal health care services, the experiences of women seeking care in facilities offering free obstetrics services, their level of satisfaction and reasons for satisfaction or dissatisfaction are poorly understood.

Methods

This study adopted a mixed study design involving a population survey of 1227 women of reproductive age who gave birth in the last five years preceding the study (2011–2015), 68 in-depth interviews, and six focus group discussions. Simple descriptive statistics were performed on 407 women who benefitted from the user fee removal policy, while the qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

The overall level of satisfaction with care received was remarkably high (97.1%), with birth outcomes being the central reason for their satisfaction. Participants were also satisfied with both the process aspect of care (which includes health workers’ attitude and privacy) and the structural dimension of care (such as, the cleanliness of health care facilities and availability of and access to medicine). From the qualitative analysis, prolonged waiting-time, the limited scope of coverage, mistreatment, disrespect and abuse, inadequate infrastructure and bed space were the main reasons why a few women were dissatisfied with care under free maternal health care.

Conclusion

The findings establish a high level of beneficiaries’ satisfaction with care under free maternal health policy in Nigeria, raising the need for sustaining the policy in expanding access to maternal health services for the poor. Nevertheless, issues relating to prolonged waiting-time, the limited scope of coverage, mistreatment, disrespect and abuse, inadequate infrastructure and bed space require attention from policymakers.

Clinical communication and caregivers' satisfaction with child healthcare in Nepal; results from Nepal Health Facility Survey 2015

Background

Patient satisfaction is an important measure of quality of care and a determinant of health service utilisation and the choice of health facility. Measuring patients’ experiences is important for understanding and improving the quality of care at health facilities. The aim of this study was to assess levels and identify associated factors of caregivers’ satisfaction and provider-caregiver communication within child healthcare in Nepal.

Methods

Secondary analysis of Sick Child Exit Interviews (n = 2092) sourced from 2015 Nepal Health Facility Survey data. Satisfaction was measured through caregivers’ satisfaction with services received and their willingness to recommend the health facility visited. Communication indicators were chosen based on the 2014 WHO IMCI guidelines and aggregate communication scores were calculated based on the number of indicators acknowledged during assessments. Logistic regression was used for analysis.

Results

Although most respondents (82.1%) reportedly were satisfied with the care provided, only 35.9% experienced good communication with their providers. Caregivers who had ever attended school were more likely to be satisfied with services (1.44, CI 95% 1.04–1.99). Type of provider, sex of child or who the caregiver was had no association with caregivers’ satisfaction. Having been given a diagnosis doubled the chances of satisfaction (AOR 2.04, 95% CI 1.38–3.00), as did discussion of the child’s growth (OR 1.71, 95% CI 1.06–2.76) and having discussed any of the included topics (AOR 1.98, CI 95% 1.14–3.45).

Conclusions

Interventions to improve healthcare staff’s communication skills are needed in Nepal to further enhance satisfaction with services and increase quality of care. However, this is an area that need further investigation given the high levels of satisfaction displayed despite poor communication. Other factors in the health care exchange between provider and clients are influencing the level of satisfaction and need to be identified and promoted further. High-quality care is no longer a goal for the future or only for high income settings; it is essential for reaching global health goals.

Are health facilities well equipped to provide basic quality childbirth services under the free maternal health policy? Findings from rural Northern Ghana

BACKGROUND

Basic inputs and infrastructure including drugs, supplies, equipment, water and electricity are required for the provision of quality care. In the era of the free maternal health policy in Ghana, it is unclear if such basic inputs are readily accessible in health facilities. The study aimed to assess the availability of basic inputs including drugs, supplies, equipment and emergency transport in health facilities. Women and health providers' views on privacy and satisfaction with quality of care were also assessed.

METHODS

The study used a convergent parallel mixed methods in one rural municipality in Ghana, Kassena-Nankana. A survey among facilities (n = 14) was done. Another survey was carried out among women who gave birth in health facilities only (n = 353). A qualitative component involved focus group discussions (FGDs) with women (n = 10) and in-depth interviews (IDIs) with midwives and nurses (n = 25). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics for the quantitative study, while the qualitative data were recorded, transcribed, read and coded using themes.

RESULTS

The survey showed that only two (14%) out of fourteen facilities had clean water, and five (36%) had electricity. Emergency transport for referrals was available in only one (7%) facility. Basic drugs, supplies, equipment and infrastructure especially physical space were inadequate. Rooms used for childbirth in some facilities were small and used for multiple purposes. Eighty-nine percent (n = 314) of women reported lack of privacy during childbirth and this was confirmed in the IDIs. Despite this, 77% of women (n = 272) were very satisfied or satisfied with quality of care for childbirth which was supported in the FGDs. Reasons for women's satisfaction included the availability of midwives to provide childbirth services and to have follow-up homes visits. Some midwives were seen to be patient and empathetic. Providers were not satisfied due to health system challenges.

CONCLUSION

Government should dedicate more resources to the provision of essential inputs for CHPS compounds providing maternal health services. Health management committees should also endeavour to play an active role in the management of health facilities to ensure efficiency and accountability. These would improve quality service provision and usage, helping to achieve universal health coverage.

Antenatal care in rural Bangladesh: Gaps in adequate coverage and content

INTRODUCTION

Antenatal care (ANC) has long been considered a critical component of the continuum of care during pregnancy, with the potential to contribute to the survival and thriving of women and newborns. Although ANC utilization has increased in over the past decades, adequate coverage and content of ANC contacts have fallen under increased scrutiny. The objectives of this article are to describe the coverage and content of ANC contacts in the context of rural Bangladesh.

METHODS

A community-based, cross-sectional household survey was conducted in two sub-districts of Netrokona district, Bangladesh in 2016. A total of 737 women with a recent birth outcome were interviewed. Respondents reported on the ANC contacts and the content of these contacts. Descriptive statistics were used to report coverage and content of ANC contacts stratified by covariates. Chi-square tests were performed to explore whether the estimates are different among different categories and significant differences were reported at p<0.05.

RESULTS

Around 25% of women attended at least four ANC contacts, with only 11% initiating ANC in the first trimester of pregnancy. Blood pressure was measured in almost all of the ANC contacts (92%), and abdominal examination performed in 80% and weight measured in 85% of ANC contacts. Urine tests were conducted in less than half of the ANC contacts, whereas blood screening tests and ultrasound were conducted in 45% contacts. Health care providers counselled women on danger signs in only 66% of the ANC contacts. Overall, the content of facility-based ANC contacts were better than home-based ANC contacts across all components.

CONCLUSIONS

Adequate coverage of ANC remains poor in Netrokona, Bangladesh and important gaps remain in the content of ANC contacts when women attend these services.

Social determinants of health affecting utilisation of routine maternity services in Nepal: a narrative review of the evidence

Nepal has one of the highest maternal and neonatal mortality rates among low- and middle-income countries. Nepal's health system focuses on life-saving interventions provided during the antenatal to postpartum period. However, the inequality in the uptake of maternity services is of major concern. This study aimed to synthesise evidence from the literature regarding the social determinants of health on the use of maternity services in Nepal. We conducted a structured narrative review of studies published from 1994 to 2016. We searched five databases: PubMed; CINAHL; EMBASE; ProQuest and Global Index Medicus using search terms covering four domains: access and use; equity determinants; routine maternity services and Nepal. The findings of the studies were summarised using the World Health Organization's Social Determinants of Health framework. A total of 59 studies were reviewed. A range of socio-structural and intermediary-level determinants was identified, either as facilitating factors, or as barriers, to the uptake of maternity services. These determinants were higher socioeconomic status; education; privileged ethnicities such as Brahmins/Chhetris, people following the Hindu religion; accessible geography; access to transportation; family support; women's autonomy and empowerment; and a birth preparedness plan. Findings indicate the need for health and non-health sector interventions, including education linked to job opportunities; mainstreaming of marginalised communities in economic activities and provision of skilled providers, equipment and medicines. Interventions to improve maternal health should be viewed using a broad 'social determinants of health' framework.

Maternal Satisfaction on Delivery Service among Postnatal Mothers in a Government Hospital, Mid-Western Nepal

Background

Maternal satisfaction is one of the most frequently reported outcome measures for quality of care, and it needs to be addressed to improve the quality and efficiency of health care during pregnancy, childbirth, and puerperium to provide quality maternal-friendly services.

Objective

To find out the maternal satisfaction on delivery service among postnatal mothers in a government hospital, Mid-Western Nepal.

Method

A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in maternity ward of Bheri Zonal Hospital, Nepal. A total of 178 purposively selected postnatal mothers were interviewed face-to-face using semistructured interview schedules. Analysis and interpretation of the findings were done with the help of descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results

The study shows that majority (89.88%) of the mothers were satisfied with the delivery service. The level of satisfaction was higher in interpersonal and technical aspects (93.82%) of care than in informative aspects (91.57%) and health facility-related statements (91.01%). There was no statistically significant association between sociodemographic and obstetric characteristics and maternal satisfaction. Although insignificant, postnatal mothers who were illiterate were 2.710 times more likely to be satisfied than who were literate (p=0.475; OR = 2.710; CI = 0.343-21.4), also postnatal mothers up to primary level were 2.850 times more likely to be satisfied than secondary level and above (p=0.241; OR-2.850; CI 0.622-13.056). Also, in this study, postnatal mothers who were multiparous were 2.352 times more likely to be satisfied with the delivery service than primiparous (p=0.111; OR = 2.352; CI = 0.801-6.907). Majority (87.1%) of the mothers would like to receive delivery service next time in the same hospital.

Conclusion

Majority of mothers were satisfied by the delivery service. Care givers need to fully understand the expectations the mothers have and provide care that is consistent with those expectations. The health system should be devised to increase maternal satisfaction in the health institution and provide maternal-friendly service.

[Development of an Instrument to Assess the Quality of Childbirth Care from the Mother's Perspective]

PURPOSE

This study aimed to develop an instrument to assess the quality of childbirth care from the perspective of a mother after delivery.

METHODS

The instrument was developed from a literature review, interviews, and item validation. Thirty-eight items were compiled for the instrument. The data for validity and reliability testing were collected using a questionnaire survey conducted on 270 women who had undergone normal vaginal delivery in Korea and analyzed with descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis, and reliability coefficients.

RESULTS

The exploratory factor analysis reduced the number of items in the instrument to 28 items that were factored into four subscales: family-centered care, personal care, emotional empowerment, and information provision. With respect to convergence validation, there was positive correlation between this instrument and birth satisfaction scale (r=.34, p<.001). The internal consistency reliability was acceptable (Cronbach's alpha =.96).

CONCLUSION

This instrument could be used as a measure of the quality of nursing care for women who have a normal vaginal delivery.

Do experiences and perceptions about quality of care differ among social groups in Nepal? : A study of maternal healthcare experiences of women with and without disabilities, and Dalit and non-Dalit women

BACKGROUND

Suboptimal quality of care and disparities in services by healthcare providers are often reported in Nepal. Experience and perceptions about quality of care may differ according to women's socio-cultural background, individual characteristics, their exposure and expectations. This study aimed to compare perceptions of the quality of maternal healthcare services between two groups that are consistently considered vulnerable, women with disabilities from both the non-Dalit population and Dalit population and their peers without disabilities from both non-Dalit and Dalit communities.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 343 total women that included women with disabilities, Dalits and non-Dalits. Women were recruited for interview, who were aged 15-49 years, had been pregnant within the last five years and who had used maternal care services in one of the public health facilities of Rupandehi district. A 20-item, Likert-type scale with four sub-scales or dimensions: 'Health Facility', 'Healthcare Delivery', 'Inter-personal' and 'Access to Care' was used to measure women's perceptions of quality of care. Chi-square test and t test were used to compare groups and to assess differences in perceptions; and linear regression was applied to assess confounding effects of socio-demographic factors. The mean score was compared for each item and separately for each dimension.

RESULTS

All groups, women with disabilities and women without disabilities, Dalit and non-Dalit rated their perceptions and experiences of quality of care lowly in a number of items. While perceived quality of care between women with disabilities and without disabilities in the 'Health Facility' dimension and associated items, was found to differ (p<0.05), this difference was linked to disability status, but was not linked to caste differences. For example, differences in mean scores relating to 'Cleanliness and Facilities', 'Open and Friendliness' and 'Compassion and Kindness' were highly significant (p<0.001), with women with disabilities rating these as better than women without disabilities. On the other hand, women without disabilities rated the 'Availability of cash Incentives' more highly (p<0.01). No significant differences were found between Dalit and non-Dalit women in perceived quality of care, except in relation to 'Cleanliness and facilities', which Dalit women rated lower than non-Dalits (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Perceptions about the quality of care differed significantly by disability status but not by caste. All groups rated the quality of healthcare delivery, interpersonal and personal factors as well as access to services 'low.' Poor service user experiences and perceptions of quality of care undermine opportunities to translate increased healthcare coverage into improved access and outcomes. Greater attention is required by policy makers, health planners and providers to the improvement of quality of care in health facilities.

Factors determining satisfaction among facility-based maternity clients in Nepal

Background

With an increasing number of institutional deliveries, the Nepalese health system faces a challenge to ensure a quality of service provision. This paper aims to identify the determinants of client satisfaction with maternity care in Nepal using data from a nationally representative health facility survey.

Methods

A total of 447 exit interviews, with women who had either recently delivered or who had experienced obstetric complications, were conducted across 13 districts in Nepal (87% in hospitals, 8% in Primary Health Care Centres (PHCCs), and 5% in Sub/Health Posts(S/HPs). Client satisfaction was measured using an eight item scale that covered accessibility, interpersonal communication, physical environment, technical aspect of care and decision making. A client satisfaction index was computed using ordinal principal component analysis. A multivariate probit model was used to assess the net effect of explanatory variables on client satisfaction.

Results

Longer waiting times and overcrowding increased the likelihood of dissatisfaction. Having an opportunity to ask questions was positively associated with client satisfaction. Respondents from hill districts and rural areas were more likely to be satisfied in comparison to respondents from mountain, terai and urban areas. Socio-demographic factors (age, parity, caste/ethnicity, education, and ecological zone) and supply side factors (the time taken to reach a facility, type of facility, payment for services, and unknown heath worker or anyone entering the delivery room) were not statistically associated with satisfaction.

Conclusions

The findings suggest client satisfaction with the quality of maternity services in Nepal could be improved by reducing waiting times and overcrowding, and giving the mothers adequate time to ask questions. If clients are more satisfied they are more likely to use the facility again/recommend to a friend.

The examination of quality of pregnancy care based on the World Health Organization's "Responsiveness" model of selected pregnant women in Tehran

INTRODUCTION

The World Health Organization (WHO) Responsiveness model showing the ability of health systems in fulfilling people's expectations in connection with nonclinical aspects is an appropriate pattern to assess healthcare. The purpose of this study was to determine the status of pregnancy care provisions based on the responsiveness model.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study conducted by randomly sampling 130 women visiting selected hospitals in Tehran in 2015. A researcher-made questionnaire based on the responsiveness model of WHO was used to collect data. We determined the face validity and content validity of the questionnaire, and its reliability was confirmed by Cronbach's alpha coefficient (0.94) and test-retest analysis (0.96). The obtained data were analyzed by SPSS version 20 descriptive statistics, t-test, one-way ANOVA, Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient, and Spearman correlation.

RESULTS

Total responsiveness from the perspective of service recipients was 69.46±14.65 from 100. The obtained scores showed that, in the range of 0 to 100, 73.02 were about basic amenities (the most score), 72.93 about dignity, 70.91 about communication, 70.76 about confidentiality, 66.30 about provision social needs, 65.96 about choice of provider, 65.92 about autonomy, and 52.65 about prompt attention (the lowest score), which are representing the average level of service quality. There were significant relationships between participating in preparation class of labor and dignity (p<0.001), autonomy (p=0.01), provision social needs (p=0.01), and overall responsiveness (p=0.03). It was obtained that there is a significant linear relationship between scores given to hospitals and dimensions of responsiveness (p=0.05). Findings indicated a significant relationship between insurance type and dimensions of choice of provider (p=0.03) and communication (p=0.03).

CONCLUSION

The mean score of service quality in the present investigation illustrated that nonclinical dimensions have been disregarded and it has potential to be better. So some grand plans are needed.