Date of Award
12-2023
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Health Policy and Management
First Advisor
Dr Sarah Saleem
Second Advisor
Dr Meer Yusuf
Department
Community Health Sciences
Abstract
Background: Natural disasters can have a significant impact on maternal and child health outcomes, particularly in low-income settings. Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable during natural disasters due to limited access to healthcare facilities and disruptions in the supply of essential medicines and equipment.
Purpose: The study aims to identify the challenges faced by pregnant women during 2022 floods and the hurdles encountered by the health system while addressing those challenges.
Methods: The research is based on a qualitative study that involved in-depth interviews with 20 pregnant women who were displaced due to the floods in Naseerabad Division, and 12 healthcare providers who were involved in providing maternal health services during the disaster. The study explores the diverse interpretations individuals have based on their personal experiences.
Findings: The study found that pregnant women faced significant challenges during the floods, including limited access to healthcare facilities, inadequate shelter conditions, and disruptions in the supply of essential medicines and equipment. Some pregnant women even had home deliveries due to limited access to healthcare facilities. The research study also brings to the forefront the existence of systemic challenges within Naseerabad division, including issues such as illiteracy, poverty, limited resources, and inadequate infrastructure. The pervasiveness of poverty has a profound impact on the overall well-being of the community, exacerbating the burden of disease during disasters.
Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of a contingency plan, capacity building, and the enhanced institutional sustainability to improve maternal health outcomes during natural disasters. The findings of this study can be applied to other emergency situations and regions to improve maternal health outcomes. The study concludes that a comprehensive approach that involves all stakeholders is necessary to ensure the safety of pregnant women during natural disasters
First Page
1
Last Page
71
Recommended Citation
Shah, N.
(2023). Health system’s response to ensure safe delivery of pregnant displaced women in 2022 floods in Baluchistan.. , 1-71.
Available at:
https://ecommons.aku.edu/etd_pk_mc_mhpm/55