Background of the Study
Access to skilled birth attendants (SBAs) is a key determinant of maternal and neonatal health outcomes. The presence of trained healthcare professionals during childbirth significantly reduces maternal mortality, birth complications, and infant deaths (WHO, 2024). In Nigeria, healthcare policies aim to increase access to SBAs by promoting facility-based deliveries, training midwives, and improving rural healthcare infrastructure (Federal Ministry of Health, 2024). Bauchi State, like other northern Nigerian states, faces significant maternal health challenges, with many women giving birth without skilled medical assistance.
Despite government policies promoting access to SBAs, many women in Bauchi State still rely on traditional birth attendants (TBAs) due to factors such as distance to healthcare facilities, financial constraints, and cultural preferences (Adebayo & Yusuf, 2024). In rural areas, inadequate healthcare infrastructure and shortages of trained personnel further limit access to skilled birth attendants (Ibrahim & Bello, 2024). Additionally, healthcare facilities often lack essential equipment, leading to poor maternal and neonatal health outcomes (Ogunleye & Musa, 2023).
Given these concerns, this study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of healthcare policies in improving access to skilled birth attendants in Bauchi State and to identify gaps in policy implementation.
Statement of the Problem
Despite healthcare policies aimed at increasing access to skilled birth attendants, maternal mortality rates remain high in Bauchi State. Research indicates that many women still prefer traditional birth attendants due to cultural beliefs, distrust of modern healthcare services, and financial limitations (Bello & Yusuf, 2023). Additionally, infrastructural challenges such as poor road networks and lack of healthcare facilities prevent pregnant women from accessing skilled care during delivery (Ogunbanjo & Salami, 2024).
A major gap in the literature is the lack of empirical evaluation of healthcare policies on SBA accessibility in Bauchi State. While policies exist, their implementation and effectiveness remain unclear. This study seeks to examine the impact of healthcare policies on access to skilled birth attendants in Bauchi State and propose strategies for improving maternal healthcare services.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on healthcare policies promoting access to skilled birth attendants in Bauchi State. It will assess urban and rural healthcare facilities, as well as community perspectives on SBA utilization. Limitations include potential difficulties in accessing government healthcare records and biases in self-reported maternal health experiences.
Definitions of Terms
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