Barriers to the implementation of intimate partner violence screening in Papua New Guinea: Insights from health service providers, managers and administrators

Background Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a major public health concern and a human rights problem worldwide, leading to severe effects on women's physical, mental, economic, and reproductive health. Despite its prevalence, particularly in low- and middle-income countries such as Papua New Guinea (PNG), IPV often goes unaddressed during pregnancy, even though it is linked to adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. Aim This study explores the perspectives of senior clinical healthcare providers, managers, and administrators regarding the integration of IPV screening into routine antenatal care in PNG, identifying key barriers and facilitators to implementation. Methods This qualitative study utilised in-depth interviews with senior clinical healthcare providers, health service managers, and administrators working in antenatal care settings across PNG. Thematic analysis identified major themes related to knowledge, attitudes, readiness, and perceived challenges regarding IPV screening. Findings Multiple barriers to the implementation of IPV screening in antenatal care were identified. Barriers included cultural norms, resource constraints, and insufficient provider training. Participants highlighted limited awareness of IPV’s health impacts and inconsistent protocols for routinely addressing these issues. Despite recognising the importance of addressing IPV, respondents noted significant gaps in systems and intersectoral collaboration. Conclusion Successful implementation of routine IPV screening during antenatal care in PNG requires targeted interventions such as provider education, capacity-building, and the development of context-specific protocols. Multisectoral collaboration and increased resource allocation are essential to strengthening healthcare responses, improving identification and support for women experiencing IPV, and ultimately advancing maternal and child health outcomes.