Clients’ Perception of the Role of Transportation to the Hospital and Level of Hospital in Reducing Maternal Mortality in Calabar, Nigeria

Abstract

Transportation is vital in accessing healthcare services as well as reducing maternal mortality. This study examined clients’ perception of the role of transportation to the hospital and level of hospital in reducing maternal mortality in Calabar. This study was a cross-section descriptive design. Four (4) research questions were developed for the study. A total of 220 participants were recruited by proportionate sampling technique. Respondents were selected from four clinic days Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays in each visit for a period of two weeks were used for the study. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data. The data were analysed using frequencies and percentages. The finding of the study revealed that: 153 (68%) agreed that good transportation increases the number of times participants go for an antenatal visit. 159 (72%) of the respondents viewed that good roads and vehicles make a journey to the hospital quick and easy. 177 (62%) opined that the best way to visit the hospital is by one’ s car or a taxi drop. 203 (93%) agreed that hospital has skilled midwives and doctors; 153 (70%) agreed that level of the hospital is reflective of low maternal and infant deaths; 159 (72%) agreed that healthcare team are highly skilled in handling both complicated and uncomplicated deliveries. 181 (78%) supports the notion that transportation plays a huge role in the reduction of maternal mortality in Calabar; 148 (67%) agreed that good road network has an indirect role in reducing maternal mortality in Calabar; 146 (67%) opined that controlled traffic helps reduced maternal mortality in Calabar, and 159 (71%) agreed that lack of access to transport for women in labour can increase stillbirth and maternal death rates. The study concludes that a good road network should be provided to reduce maternal mortality in Calabar.