Strategies to promote utilization of skilled delivery services in rural communities in Muranga – Kenya

Abstract

Objective: The main objective of this study was to identify strategies for improving the utilization of skilled birth attendance services in rural communities in Muranga county, Kenya.
Design: A qualitative research design was employed to gather in-depth insights and perspectives from the participants. The analysis was done using NVIVO software version 13.
Setting: The study was conducted in Kandara sub-County in Muranga, Kenya.
Participants: The study included 48 Community Health Volunteers, 10 Community Extension Workers, and 7 local health administrators.
Main Outcome Measures: The study aimed to identify key strategies for improving the utilization of skilled delivery services. The outcome measures included client education, involvement of family members, community participation, and integration of government policies.
Results: The study established that; client education, involvement of family members, community involvement and integrating government policies are key strategies to improve the utilization of skilled deliveries in the study area.
Conclusion: The study identified various strategies at personal, interpersonal, community, and government levels. to promote the utilization of skilled delivery services that if implemented, can contribute to the reduction of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality leading to improve maternal and child health outcomes in the study area and in the republic at large.