Reducing the distance to walk: establishing a remote maternity facility in Runga, Hoima District, Uganda

Abstract

Despite a substantial reduction in global maternal mortality, rates in low-income countries remain unacceptably high. Multiple contributing factors exist, grouped into three delays: health-seeking behaviour; accessibility of care; quality of care. In the Hoima District, rates of health facility delivery and skilled birth attendance remain low and maternal mortality exceeds the national average. Establishing the Midwives At Maternity Azur Clinic (February 2017) has addressed these issues at a local level. Health education and antenatal care are provided at the clinic, encouraging women to seek timely, appropriate intrapartum care. Access from surrounding villages is facilitated by a waiting home and weekly transport for antenatal care, alongside transport to a health facility with a staffed operating theatre, when required. It is run by a resident midwife, with regular training updates, and is stocked with the necessary resources for quality healthcare. Since its advent, village leaders report all-cause burials have reduced from one a day to one a week.