Addressing Disparities in Maternal and Child Health Services: A Focus on Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract

Background: India faces a critical challenge in maternal and child health, having reported the highest maternal and child deaths globally in 2010 and 2009, respectively. Despite a 70% decline in maternal mortality from 1990 to 2015, India still accounts for 15% of global maternal deaths. This study focuses on Uttar Pradesh, India's most populous state, where under-five child mortality rates are alarming, particularly in rural areas. Despite governmental efforts, accessibility, availability, and affordability of maternal and child health services remain problematic. Data and Methods: This study utilizes publicly available multi-level data from the HMIS portal of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, focusing on Uttar Pradesh. The HMIS is a crucial tool for monitoring and implementing national health programs. Examining data from 2018 to 2020, the study assesses the spatial distribution of Maternal and Child Health (MCH) coverage at the district level using descriptive statistics. The findings contribute to understanding MCH service utilization in Uttar Pradesh. Result and Discussion: This research investigates maternal health service utilization across districts in Uttar Pradesh, India, analyzing key indicators from 2018 to 2020. The study reveals significant variations in early registration, antenatal care, vaccination, and delivery preferences. Positive changes, notably in Basti and Kanpur Dehat, contrast with negative trends in Meerut and Varanasi. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to address disparities and enhance maternal health outcomes in Uttar Pradesh. Conclusion: Maternal health service utilization is vital for community well-being. Despite increased awareness, persistent gaps exist due to barriers like inadequate infrastructure and cultural norms. Addressing these demands a multi-faceted approach, including policy reforms, education, and innovative technologies. Optimizing maternal health requires holistic efforts to bridge socio-economic gaps and build resilient communities.