A sector‐wide approach to emergency obstetric care in Uganda

Authors:
  • HKH. Kakande
    H. Kakande
  • JKJ. Kabarangira
    J. Kabarangira
  • GNG. Nanda
    G. Nanda
  • AMA.K. Mbonye
    A.K. Mbonye
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Abstract
Purpose: To establish a baseline for the availability, utilization, and quality of EmOC, and to help develop an operational strategy based on the findings.Methods: A needs assessment of emergency obstetric care (EmOC) was carried out in 197 health facilities in 19 out of 56 districts in Uganda, covering 38% of the total population.Findings: There were a large number of missing signal functions at health facilities and an urgent need to improve the availability of EmOC.Conclusion: By using the data from the assessment, it was possible to influence national policy through the health sector‐wide approach (SWAp) and place EmOC high on the national agenda. A national strategy and roll out plan to strengthen EmOC is now in place.