African Management Review | 13 August 2006
Telemedicine's Influence on Maternal Health in Urban Ghana Slums: A Mixed-Methods Exploration
K, o, j, o, B, a, f, f, o, u, r, ,, Y, a, w, A, s, a, n, t, e, ,, K, o, f, i, A, d, z, i, r, i
Abstract
Urban Ghana slums face significant challenges in maternal health care delivery. Telemedicine has emerged as a potential solution to improve access and quality of services. A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews. Quantitative data collected from a representative sample using structured questionnaires to assess programme usage and efficacy. Qualitative data gathered through in-depth interviews and focus groups to explore perceptions and experiences of participants. Telemedicine programmes have significantly increased access to maternal health services, particularly for rural residents who face geographical barriers. Patient satisfaction scores improved by 25% when using telemedicine compared to traditional methods. This study provides evidence that telemedicine can be an effective tool in improving maternal healthcare outcomes in urban Ghana slums, with notable improvements in service utilization and patient satisfaction. Telemedicine programmes should continue to be expanded and integrated into existing health infrastructure. Stakeholders must prioritise training for healthcare providers on telehealth technologies. Urban Health, Telemedicine, Maternal Care, Slums, Ghana