Peer-reviewed article
Health Workers' Perspectives on the Availability, Accessibility and Quality of Maternal Health Services for Adolescent Girls in Chiredzi District, Zimbabwe: A Cross-Sectional Study.
Muchemwa G, Khozah MY ·
Summary
Written by AI, not yet AICS's view ·Key points
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Abstract
Background Adolescents in Africa are experiencing a significant epidemiological shift, characterised by earlier sexual debut and delayed marriage, leading to a longer period of sexual activity outside of marriage. In Chiredzi district, Zimbabwe, this often results in adolescent girls facing pregnancies without adequate access to tailored maternal health services. Objectives This study aimed to gather quantitative data from health workers on the availability, accessibility and quality of adolescent maternal health services in Chiredzi district. Design This study employed a quantitative, cross-sectional study. Methods An exploratory study was conducted at Chiredzi General Hospital's maternity ward, involving all 90 healthcare workers via census sampling. Participants completed a structured, pre-tested questionnaire uploaded to Kobo Collect. A pre-test was conducted on 10% (n = 9) of the sample size. Data analysis involved cross-tabulations and inferential statistics performed in Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Results All 90 targeted health workers completed the questionnaire, offering valuable insights into the challenges faced by adolescent mothers at the hospital. Key findings revealed that over half (53.3%) of facilities lacked specific protocols for pregnant adolescents. A significant gender disparity in training was found, with 70% of female staff receiving adolescent service training compared to only 42% of male staff (p = 0.008). Furthermore, a high proportion of 'Not sure' responses (up to 50%) regarding available services indicated critical gaps in staff awareness and communication. Conclusion The study underscores the critical need for standardised adolescent-friendly protocols, mandatory and equitable staff training, and the implementation of mobile health services to improve care for adolescent mothers. Investment in these areas is essential to improve health outcomes.