Role of faith-based and nongovernment organizations in the provision of obstetric services in 3 African countries

Abstract

Objective: We sought to describe obstetric care capacity of nongovernment organization (NGO)-/faith-based organization (FBO)-run institutions compared to government-run institutions in 3 African countries using the World Health Organization Global Survey. We also compared delivery characteristics and outcomes.

Study design: This is a descriptive analysis of the 22 NGO-/FBO-run institutions in Uganda, Kenya and Democratic Republic of Congo delivering 11,594 women, compared to 20 government-run institutions delivering 25,825 women in the same countries and period.

Results: Infrastructure, obstetric services, diagnostic facilities, and anesthesiology at NGO/FBO institutions were comparable to government institutions. Women delivering at NGO/FBO institutions had more antenatal care, antenatal complications, and cesarean delivery. NGO/FBO institutions had higher obstetrician attendance and lower rates of eclampsia, preterm birth, stillbirth, Apgar <7, and neonatal near miss.

Conclusion: NGO/FBO institutions are comparable to government institutions in capacity to deliver obstetric care. NGO/FBOs have been found effective in providing delivery care in developing countries and should be appropriately recognized by stakeholders in their efforts to assist nations achieve international goals.