Awareness and Perceived Availability of Emergency Transport Schemes for Maternal Health in Kaduna State, Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: Timely access to skilled care during pregnancy and childbirth is key to reducing maternal deaths. The Emergency Transport Scheme (ETS) was introduced in Kaduna State to address the second delay in accessing skilled care. This study assessed awareness and perceived availability of ETS services among pregnant women in Kaduna State, Nigeria. Methods: A community-based, cross-sectional study using a mixed-methods approach was conducted in December 2019 among 309 women of reproductive age who had been pregnant in the year preceding the study. A multistage sampling technique was used to select respondents across three Local Government Areas (LGAs) representing the three senatorial zones of the state. Quantitative data were collected using interviewer-administered questionnaires and analysed. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were conducted. Qualitative data from focus group discussions and key informant interviews were analysed thematically. Results: Overall, 49.2% of respondents were aware of ETS services. Health workers (44.7%) were the main source of information. Only 36.1% perceived ETS to be readily available when needed. ETS awareness was significantly associated with respondents’ education level (p < 0.001), ANC attendance (p < 0.001), and LGA of residence (p = 0.027). The qualitative findings from this research revealed limited awareness of ETS in the community and irregular availability of the scheme. Conclusion: Nearly half of the participants were aware of ETS services, but the perceived availability was low. Improving sensitisation, strengthening community engagement and addressing gaps in logistics have the potential of enhancing the utilisation of ETS services.