Exploring factors influencing access to emergency obstetric care services among Congolese refugee women in Nsambya Zone, Makindye Division, Kampala Uganda

Abstract

Background: Access to emergency obstetric care is a global public health concern and affects maternal and neonatal health outcomes. We explored factors influencing access to emergency obstetric care services among Congolese refugee women in Nsambya zone, Makindye division, Kampala, Uganda. Method: This was a qualitative case study of urban Congolese refugee women. We employed qualitative data collection and analysis approaches. Data was collected through nine In-depth Interviews, five Focus Group Discussions, and sixteen Key Informant Interviews and analyzed thematically.Results: The study found that the main facilitators of access to EmOC services among Congolese refugee women were awareness of health issues and danger signs, availability of health services, and high level of education. The main barriers to accessing EmOC were inability of mothers to make decisions, low financial status of the family, irregular attendance to ANC, negative attitude of health providers toward clients, and long waiting times at the health facility. Conclusion: This study identifies factors enabling and impeding Congolese refugee women's access to EmOC services. Therefore, to enhance access, interventions must empower women in decision-making, encourage consistent ANC attendance, enhance health providers' client interactions, and reduce healthcare facility waiting times. Implementing these measures will ultimately improve EmOC service utilization among Congolese refugee women. Recommendation: Sensitize refugees on EmOC services, improve services at the health facilities, empower decision-making among the women, and enhance healthcare infrastructure, including supplies, training, and transportation.