Innovative Solutions to Address Maternal Mortality in Rural Areas
Written on
Chapter 1: The Role of Technology in Maternal Health
The world has experienced tremendous transformations since the introduction of transistors in computing and telecommunications. These minute switches have revolutionized our ability to connect, conduct business, and provide healthcare at unprecedented speeds, a feat unimaginable a century ago.
Despite the advanced technologies available in developed nations, many developing countries lag behind due to various challenges. For instance, the World Health Organization (WHO) suggests that every expectant mother should have at least eight antenatal care appointments. However, in underdeveloped regions, particularly rural areas, a modified approach known as Focused Antenatal Care (FANC) is recommended, which typically allows for a minimum of four visits.
What obstacles do pregnant women in these regions encounter?
Section 1.1: Economic Barriers
Poverty remains a significant hurdle, with many individuals in underdeveloped areas living on less than a dollar a day. In such circumstances, prioritizing healthcare during pregnancy often takes a backseat to basic survival needs. Consequently, traditional midwives frequently become the preferred choice for addressing pregnancy-related complications.
Section 1.2: Educational Deficiencies
Access to education is limited in rural communities, leading to a reliance on informal channels of information dissemination, often resulting in misinformation. Low literacy rates also make expectant mothers more likely to consult traditional midwives rather than qualified healthcare professionals.
Subsection 1.2.1: Accessibility to Healthcare Facilities
Expectant mothers who wish to seek hospital care may be disheartened by the sparse availability of medical facilities. Many hospitals are located far from their homes, necessitating long and exhausting journeys that deter regular visits.
Subsection 1.2.2: Transportation Challenges
The lack of well-maintained roads and adequate transportation options significantly contributes to the low rates of healthcare facility visits among pregnant women in underdeveloped countries. Overcrowded public transport options further discourage women from seeking professional medical assistance.
Chapter 2: Addressing the Challenges with Technology
Such pressing issues demand comprehensive solutions that extend beyond education and infrastructure improvements; they also require innovation in technology design.
To effectively combat high maternal mortality rates, particularly in regions with limited financial resources, companies must focus on developing affordable and portable medical equipment. Countries in Africa, Latin America, and South Asia face some of the highest maternal and fetal mortality rates, coupled with a lower purchasing power compared to North America and Europe. Therefore, it is crucial for manufacturers to tailor their products to meet the specific challenges faced by expectant mothers in these areas.
This video discusses efforts to combat rising maternal mortality rates among Black Americans, shedding light on the systemic issues and innovative approaches being implemented.
This video highlights the healthcare challenges faced by pregnant women of color in rural areas, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions.
Section 2.1: Innovative Applications
One promising solution is mSakhi, an open-source Android application developed by IntraHealth International, designed for mothers in remote areas of India. This app aids health workers in educating expectant mothers about the common symptoms and complications associated with pregnancy.
The Safe Delivery App (SDA), created by the Maternity Foundation, is another vital tool helping to reduce maternal mortality. It equips health workers in Africa and beyond with essential skills and knowledge in neonatal care and emergency obstetrics.
The Butterfly iQ is an innovative handheld ultrasound device powered by batteries, developed by Butterfly Network. However, its compatibility is limited to Apple devices, which can be a drawback in rural areas where such technology is rare.
Conversely, Lumify, a handheld ultrasound device by Philips, is compatible with Android devices and is particularly suited for developing countries. Its availability on a subscription basis or as a one-time purchase makes it more accessible for regions with constrained resources, thus helping to lower maternal and fetal mortality rates.
More from Mark Odecho:
- Why are Africans starving?
- 60% of the world’s arable land is in Africa.
- Getting to know your writer: Who is Mark Odecho and why did he start writing?