Community-based maternal health services have been crucial in addressing the reproductive health needs of women in Northern Uganda following decades of conflict and displacement. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including a quantitative survey of women attending antenatal care clinics to assess service access and utilization rates, alongside qualitative interviews with key informants to gather insights into service delivery effectiveness and sustainability. Women reported increased accessibility to maternal health services in areas where expansion efforts were implemented, with a notable rise in the proportion (35%) of women receiving essential antenatal care compared to those living in non-expansion zones. The study underscores the positive impact of community-based maternal healthcare expansions on service utilization and highlights the need for sustained investment and supportive policies. Policy makers should prioritise continued funding and support for these services, emphasising their role in improving reproductive health outcomes and reducing maternal mortality rates.
Okello et al. (2001) studied this question.