Vol. 2012 No. 1 (2012)

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Community Health Worker Programmes and Maternal Mortality: Evidence from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Makhulu Nkosi, Department of Clinical Research, SA Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) Tsitsi Tshabalala, Department of Epidemiology, Nelson Mandela University Sipho Mkhwanazi, SA Astronomical Observatory (SAAO)
DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18947375
Published: March 23, 2012

Abstract

This study examines the effectiveness of community health worker programmes in reducing maternal mortality rates within KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Data were collected through cross-sectional surveys conducted in and analysed using logistic regression models to determine the relationship between CHW programmes and maternal mortality reduction. The study utilised a stratified sampling method to ensure representation across different geographic regions and socio-economic levels. CHWs significantly increased access to antenatal care, leading to an increase in the proportion of women receiving recommended services from 40% to 65%. This trend was associated with a reduction in maternal mortality by 18%, although specific confidence intervals for this finding are not provided. The findings suggest that CHW programmes play a crucial role in improving access to maternal health services and reducing maternal mortality rates. Future research should focus on replicating these results across different regions and expanding the scope of interventions. Health policymakers should prioritise the expansion and sustainability of CHW programmes, particularly in underserved areas where maternal mortality is highest. Additionally, training programmes for CHWs should emphasise comprehensive care coordination to enhance service effectiveness. Community Health Workers, Maternal Mortality Reduction, Cross-Sectional Study Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.

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How to Cite

Makhulu Nkosi, Tsitsi Tshabalala, Sipho Mkhwanazi (2012). Community Health Worker Programmes and Maternal Mortality: Evidence from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. African Emergency Nursing, Vol. 2012 No. 1 (2012). https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18947375

Keywords

African GeographyCommunity Health WorkersMaternal Mortality ReductionPublic Health InterventionsEvaluation StudiesGeographic EpidemiologyOutcome Measures

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Vol. 2012 No. 1 (2012)
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