Impact of Primary Healthcare Strengthening on Maternal and Neonatal Outcomes in Rural Pakistan

Abstract

In rural areas of Pakistan where the provision of quality services is still a challenge, primary healthcare (PHC) is important in enhancing maternal and neonatal health. This paper looks at the role played by the strengthening of PHC, in relation to improvement of frontline health worker functioning, the referral system, provision of necessary supplies and community-based intervention, and their influence on maternal and neonatal outcome. Based on evidence in rural districts of Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan, the paper has identified that PHC investment results in maternal mortality, ANC utilization, skilled birth attendance, and neonatal morbidity and death reduction. The empowerment of women to seek early care, building on community trust and minimizing disparity between rural and urban populations are also possible with strengthening PHC. The research offers information to policy makers to focus on PHC reforms as one of the ways through which sustainable maternal and newborn health gains can be realized.