Exploratory Study on Access, Quality and Uptake of Maternal Health Services in a Rural Community of Osun State, Southwest Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Access, quality, and utilization of maternal health services (MHS) have remained policy and public health concerns in many developing countries, including Nigeria.This study examined the accessibility, quality, and uptake of MHS in a rural community in Osun State, Nigeria.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in May 2024 among 72 women of reproductive age (15-49 years) who were homogeneous in terms of their socioeconomic attributes. Study participants were recruited using a convenience sampling method. Six focus group discussions were held, with data collected via an interview guide and analyzed thematically using Atlas Ti. Ethical approval was obtained, and the study outcomes included quality, access, and utilization of MHS in the setting.

Results: Among the respondents, 55.6% were aged 20-29 years, 66.7% practiced Christianity, and 83.3% came from monogamous families. The majority of respondents indicated that maternal health services (MHS) were neither financially nor physically accessible to them, as women frequently travel beyond their immediate communities to seek care. The quality and utilization of MHS were assessed as sub-optimal. Perceived barriers to access, quality, and utilization of MHS included the absence of blood transfusion services, lack of obstetric ultrasound facilities, unavailability of ambulance services, frequent stock-outs of essential medicines, and the unavailability of skilled birth attendants.

Conclusion: There is an urgent need for policymakers to design and implement interventions that can improve access, quality, and uptake of MHS services in rural Nigerian communities to meet global targets