Date of Graduation
Fall 12-13-2024
Document Access
Project/Capstone - Global access
Degree Name
Master of Public Health (MPH)
College/School
School of Nursing and Health Professions
Abstract
Abstract
Objective: This paper examines the barriers that inhibit woman from accessing comprehensive maternal health care services in rural areas of South Africa.
Methods: I used multiple databases (PubMed and Google Scholar) to extract literature that explored the factors pertaining to maternal health service delivery and utilization, disparities, and perspectives. I identified 10 articles that met the inclusion criteria and utilized a qualitative, quantitative or mixed methods approach.
Key Findings: A thematic analysis determined that inequities in maternal health care services, inconsistent leadership and resources in district hospitals and low maternal health literacy among women in rural areas played a significant role in access to quality maternal health care services.
Conclusion: The findings suggest that inequities in maternal health care such as limited hospital resources, deeply rooted cultural norms and varying hospital leadership act as barriers to access to comprehensive maternal health services in rural South Africa. Additionally, the research highlights there is lack of recent available data/research on this topic limiting the information that is available to make decisions to that can help contribute to lowering the high maternal mortality rate in rural South Africa.
Recommended Citation
Okemiri, Ngozi, "Maternal Health Care in Rural South Africa: Risk Factors Impacting the High Maternal Mortality Rate" (2024). Master's Projects and Capstones. 1751.
https://repository.usfca.edu/capstone/1751
