We found a match
Your institution may have access to this item. Find your institution then sign in to continue.
- Title
Influence of Mobile Communication on Utilization and Outcome of Maternal Health Services in Rural Area.
- Authors
Bangal, Vidyadhar; Somasundaram, K. V.; Thitame, Sunil
- Abstract
Introduction: The rapidly expanding mobile network coverage and mobile phone usage has revolutionized new ways of delivering health services. Objective is to assess the influence of mobile communication between health facility and pregnant women on utilization and outcome of maternal health services. The scientific application of mobile phone technology for improving maternal health outcome in rural area is a novel idea and underexplored area. Method: The prospective randomized control study involving four hundred pregnant women was undertaken. Women from control group received routine antenatal care and advice. Intervention group received mobile phone calls in addition, as reminders about next visit and SMS on maternal health. Results and Discussion: Women from intervention group had 23% more number of antenatal visits, 15% more institutional deliveries, lower perinatal mortality (2.94% versus 3.82%) as compared to the control group. The complications during pregnancy and labour were less in (14.00% and 21.00%) in intervention group. Significantly large number of women from intervention group (85.00% versus 21.00%).) turned up for postnatal follow up, as compared to control group. Outcome of the present study will be useful in improvement in maternal health and pregnancy outcome by optimum utilization of services in rural area. Conclusion: m-Health tools present an opportunity to influence behaviour change and ensure that women access prevention services, including antenatal, natal and postnatal care. Use of Mobile technology in health has a great potential and promise for improving the health of the rural community.
- Subjects
MATERNAL health services; MATERNAL health; MOBILE communication systems
- Publication
Indian Journal of Public Health Research & Development, 2018, Vol 9, Issue 5, p504
- ISSN
0976-0245
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.5958/0976-5506.2018.00497.7