Barriers in providing maternal health care services in a mountainous area

Abstract

Purpose

While programs had been implemented by both the government and non-governmental organizations to address inequity in maternal health care in mountainous areas in Vietnam, the expected outcomes were not fully reached due to existing barriers from health workers mainly providing the health services. This study explores prominent issues faced by health workers in delivering maternal care in Cao Bang, focusing on their impact on the local population’s daily lives and overall development.

Methods

A qualitative study was conducted with 15 participants working as health managers, commune health workers, commune midwives, and village health workers in selected communes of a mountainous and border district located in the Northeast Cao Bang province.

Results

Main barriers include the incompetent healthcare workforce, ineffective use of facility resources, lack of work commitment, and unscientific traditional beliefs.

Conclusion

Future community programs should implement strict policies, defined rights, and clear responsibilities for health workers handling these obstacles to optimize the quality of maternal health care services in these remote areas.