Exploring the factors contributing to contraceptive stock-outs at primary health care clinics in North-Eastern Namibia: A qualitative descriptive study.

Abstract

Millions of women face barriers to accessing contraception due to supply-side issues, including limited health facility access and contraceptive stockouts. Research on the causes of stock-outs remains scarce. This study explored contributing factors within primary health care clinics in north-eastern Namibia using a qualitative, explorative, descriptive, and contextual approach. Semi structured interviews were conducted with sixteen participants selected through convenience sampling. Data were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed thematically. The analysis revealed three main themes: contraceptive stock-outs, contraceptive supply and demand challenges, and strategies for ensuring consistent availability of contraceptives. The findings revealed that poor contraceptive stock management, theft, and supply-demand discrepancies are significant factors contributing to stock-outs. The critical issue identified was the limited pharmaceutical knowledge among staff which leads to sporadic contraceptive availability. Pharmaceutical knowledge of contraceptive procurement and supply management is needed to prevent stock out of contraceptive. The study highlights the urgent need for training healthcare personnel involved in contraceptive procurement and supply management. These insights gained from this study can assist the Ministry of Health and Social Services and stakeholders to develop targeted strategies to prevent stock-outs and improve contraceptive access in Namibia and similar settings.