Few studies have investigated information and communication technologies (ICTs) as determinants of ANC utilization, yet ICTs in health can improve patient outcome, tackle health systems challenges, and improve client-to-provider relationship. A cross-sectional design using both quantitative and qualitative data collection approaches was used to ascertain whether ICT uptake can determine ANC utilization. Women aged 18-50 years who were pregnant had given birth two years preceding the survey and who had at least a primary school education participated in this study. Data was analyzed using Pearson's Chi-square and descriptive discriminant analysis. Results from this study suggest an association between ICT uptake and ANC utilization (χ2 = 19.3, ρ <0.001) and a statistically significant relationship between the discriminant function and the grouping variable at p=.012 (Wilks's ᴧ = .822; χ2 = 28.62 (14df), p<0.05, valid n = 164). Control measures and interventions should be geared towards integrating ICTs in women's routine antenatal care practices.
There has been low adherence of antenatal care utilization (ANC) in low and middle-income countries (LMIC) despite its associated negative outcome on women and their unborn babies. Although several studies have examined ANC, the majority focus on isolated aspects and do not explore the holistic approach to understand its dynamics. The system dynamics approach provides a deeper understanding of the phenomenon by examining the underlying factors, causes, effects, feedback, and delays. This study aimed at understanding factors that influence ANC utilization using the system's dynamics approach. An interpretive systematic review to establish multifaceted and context-specific processes was done between May and November 2019. Data from 24 articles were synthesized and used to build causal loop diagrams, which were validated through focus group discussions and interviews with stakeholders. Results revealed human resource numbers and welfare, awareness campaigns, peer support groups, and community-based engagement as key leverage points towards ANC improvement.
Current empirical evidence suggests that successful adoption of eHealth systems improves maternal health outcomes, yet there are still existing gaps in adopting such systems in Uganda. Service delivery in maternal health is operating in a spectrum of inadequacy, hence eHealth adoption cannot ensue. This study set out to explore the challenges that impede eHealth adoption in women's routine antenatal care practices in Uganda. A qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews was employed to document challenges. These challenges were classified based on a unified theory of acceptance and use of technology constructs. One hundred and fifteen expectant mothers, aged between 18 and 49 years, who spoke either English or Luganda were included in the study that took place between January to May 2019. Thematic analysis using template analysis was adopted to analyse qualitative responses. Challenges were categorised based on five principal unified theories of acceptance and use of technology constructs namely: performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions and behavioural intention. Facilitating conditions had more influence on technology acceptance and adoption than the other four constructs. Specifically, the lack of training prior to using the system, technical support, computers and smart phones had a downhill effect on adoption. Subsequently, the cost of data services, internet intermittency, and the lack of systems that bridge the gap between mothers and health providers further hindered technology uptake. In conclusion, strategies such as co-development, training end-users, garnering support at the national and hospital levels should be advocated to improve user acceptance of technology.
There has been low adherence of antenatal care utilization (ANC) in low and middle-income countries (LMIC) despite its associated negative outcome on women and their unborn babies. Although several studies have examined ANC, the majority focus on isolated aspects and do not explore the holistic approach to understand its dynamics. The system dynamics approach provides a deeper understanding of the phenomenon by examining the underlying factors, causes, effects, feedback, and delays. This study aimed at understanding factors that influence ANC utilization using the system's dynamics approach. An interpretive systematic review to establish multifaceted and context-specific processes was done between May and November 2019. Data from 24 articles were synthesized and used to build causal loop diagrams, which were validated through focus group discussions and interviews with stakeholders. Results revealed human resource numbers and welfare, awareness campaigns, peer support groups, and community-based engagement as key leverage points towards ANC improvement.
Few studies have investigated information and communication technologies (ICTs) as determinants of ANC utilization, yet ICTs in health can improve patient outcome, tackle health systems challenges, and improve client-to-provider relationship. A cross-sectional design using both quantitative and qualitative data collection approaches was used to ascertain whether ICT uptake can determine ANC utilization. Women aged 18-50 years who were pregnant had given birth two years preceding the survey and who had at least a primary school education participated in this study. Data was analyzed using Pearson's Chi-square and descriptive discriminant analysis. Results from this study suggest an association between ICT uptake and ANC utilization (χ2 = 19.3, ρ <0.001) and a statistically significant relationship between the discriminant function and the grouping variable at p=.012 (Wilks's ᴧ = .822; χ2 = 28.62 (14df), p<0.05, valid n = 164). Control measures and interventions should be geared towards integrating ICTs in women's routine antenatal care practices.
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