This policy was meant to enable Kenya to increase use of health facility based services by mothers and achieve the goals of universal health coverage (UHC) ( Matiang, 2018 ).
Are out-of-pocket payments a barrier to the utilization of maternal health services?Out-of-pocket payments in the context of a free maternal health care policy was also noted in Burkina Faso ( Meda et al., 2019 ). 3.4. Poor quality Perceived low quality of care is a major barrier to the utilization of maternal health services and can lead to a first delay in deciding to seek care ( Owiti et al., 2018 ).
What is the mortality and morbidity of pregnancy in Kenya?In Kenya, as in many LMICs, pregnancy-related complications constitute the principal causes of morbidity and mortality amongst women, translating to 362 maternal deaths per 100 000 live births ( Banke-thomas, Maua, Madaj, Ameh, & Broek, 2020 ).
Why did Kenya abolish delivery fees in all public health facilities?Background: Kenya abolished delivery fees in all public health facilities through a presidential directive effective on June 1, 2013 with an aim of promoting health facility delivery service utilization and reducing pregnancy-related mortality in the country.
