P-06 “Respectful Maternity Care (RMC) Formative Assessment – A Case Study of Trinidad and Tobago”
Author(s):
A James-Euin , W Arneaud , M Rollock , D Lewis , S Curtis , S Stalls , P Sripad , J Ricca , ON Ocho
Year of Presentation:
2024
Objective: To conduct a formative assessment of RMC in the public and private sectors from the perspectives of healthcare professionals and clients.
Methods: A mixed methods approach was used. Quantita- tive data were collected from pregnant women (297) and midwives/Obstetricians (175). Qualitative data were col- lected from pregnant women, spouses, care providers, and policymakers as key informant interviews (37) and focus group discussions (6). Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive analysis and qualitative data were ana- lyzed using thematic analysis.
Results: Most women were 26–35 years, had secondary school education, Christian, married/cohabited, profes- sional, had>2 children, and spent >48 hours on the ward. Women generally reported being treated with respect, were made comfortable but less reported having access to sufficient equipment/supplies, space, and staffing. Less than 50% reported having labor or birth companion. Few women reported spoken to in a rude or humiliating way, having their information discussed publicly, or being threatened to cooperate or their childbirth experience will be affected. Men believe that providers spoke less senstively to them while women who were younger or older felt judged or discriminated against as a result of their age or number of children.
Conclusion: Both providers, women, and their partners share an understanding of disrespectful/respectful care. Although severe mistreatment is rare, the findings from the study can be used as a framework for developing recommendations to enhance RMC services in the public and private sector.