Improving maternal healthcare utilisation in sub-Saharan Africa through micro-finance
Abekah-Nkrumah, G.; Abor, P.Aseweh.; Abor, J.; Adjasi, C.K.D.
International Journal of Health Care Quality Assurance 24(8): 601-610
2011
ISSN/ISBN: 0952-6862 PMID: 22204265 DOI: 10.1108/09526861111174170Document Number: 225426
This paper aims to examine links between women's access to micro-finance and how they use maternal healthcare services in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The authors use theoretical and empirical literature to propose a framework to sustain and improve women's access to maternal healthcare services through micro-financing. It is found that improved access to micro-finance by women, combined with education may enhance maternal health service uptake. The paper does not consider empirical data in the analysis. The authors advocate empirically testing the framework proposed in other SSA countries. It is important to empower women by facilitating their access to education and micro-finance. This has implications for improving maternal healthcare utilization in SSA. The paper moves beyond poor access to maternal health services in SSA and proposes a framework for providing sustainable solutions.