Background of the Study
Maternal mortality remains one of the leading health issues in developing countries, including Nigeria, where the maternal mortality ratio is alarmingly high (World Health Organization, 2023). Kaduna State, a large and diverse region in Nigeria, has been struggling with high maternal mortality rates, exacerbated by factors such as limited access to healthcare, insufficient maternal health services, and socio-cultural barriers (Abdullahi & Garba, 2024). According to recent reports, many women in Kaduna State die during childbirth due to preventable causes, such as hemorrhage, infection, and obstructed labor, conditions that could be managed with proper healthcare interventions (Umar et al., 2023).
Access to healthcare plays a pivotal role in reducing maternal mortality. However, in Kaduna State, particularly in rural areas, healthcare facilities are often poorly equipped, understaffed, and distant from communities. Additionally, cultural practices, limited transportation, and the cost of care further hinder women from seeking timely medical assistance during pregnancy and childbirth (Aliyu & Mustapha, 2024). This study aims to evaluate the relationship between maternal mortality and healthcare accessibility in Kaduna State, focusing on how healthcare infrastructure and services affect maternal outcomes.
Statement of the Problem
Despite efforts to reduce maternal mortality, the rates in Kaduna State remain high, particularly in rural areas where access to maternal health services is limited. The poor accessibility of healthcare services is a major determinant of maternal deaths, with women often facing barriers such as distance to health facilities, lack of skilled health workers, and inadequate emergency care services. This study seeks to examine how healthcare accessibility directly impacts maternal mortality in Kaduna State.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the relationship between healthcare accessibility and maternal mortality in Kaduna State.
2. To identify the barriers that prevent women from accessing maternal healthcare services in Kaduna State.
3. To recommend strategies for improving healthcare access and reducing maternal mortality in Kaduna State.
Research Questions
1. How does healthcare accessibility affect maternal mortality rates in Kaduna State?
2. What are the main barriers preventing women from accessing maternal healthcare in Kaduna State?
3. What policies can be implemented to improve healthcare access and reduce maternal mortality in Kaduna State?
Research Hypotheses
1. Limited healthcare accessibility is significantly associated with higher maternal mortality rates in Kaduna State.
2. Barriers such as distance to healthcare facilities and lack of transportation are significant factors contributing to maternal mortality in Kaduna State.
3. Improved healthcare infrastructure and access will lead to a reduction in maternal mortality rates in Kaduna State.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on maternal mortality and healthcare accessibility in Kaduna State. Limitations include difficulties in obtaining accurate data on maternal deaths, particularly in rural areas, and the challenge of assessing the quality of healthcare services.
Definition of Terms
• Maternal Mortality: The death of a woman during pregnancy, childbirth, or within 42 days of delivery, often due to complications.
• Healthcare Accessibility: The ease with which individuals can obtain necessary healthcare services, influenced by factors such as location, cost, and availability of medical staff.
• Obstetric Care: Medical care provided during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postnatal period, aimed at ensuring the health and safety of the mother and child.
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