Assessment of Delivery Points in a Tribal District of Maharashtra” - an Observational Study

Abstract

Introduction - Quality of healthcare in delivery points, particularly in tribal areas, is crucial for safe childbirth and maternal health. There is a need for comprehensive evaluation of delivery points, focusing on infrastructure, supplies, adherence to protocols, and overall quality of care provided during childbirth. Methods- A community-based study conducted in Palghar district where 15 delivery points were selected, by convenient sampling. Data was collected through observations and record reviews through LaQshya checklist. Indicators like service provision, patients’ rights, clinical services, inputs, support services, infection control services, quality management were used to score the delivery points. Results- L3 level delivery points scored the highest in-service provision, with an average score of 19(88.18%) and highest in the area of provision patients’ rights38(95%) as compared to other levels. L3 delivery points scored was 98.2 (90.92%) in in the area of inputs, 59.2 (95.48%) in support services, 176.4 (95.8%) in clinical services, 71(95.94%) in infection control and 48.57% in quality management services. Conclusion – L3 delivery points scored highest than all the levels in all the criteria of LaQshya checklist and L1 delivery points scored the least. Major areas of improvement were quality management, infection control and inputs.