Abstract

Background: Robust emergency transport system is vital in the reduction of maternal mortality ratio (MMR) by curtailing delay and thus, it helps in reaching the sustainable development goals of MMR. The emergency management and referral institute (EMRI) model has shown good results in various states of India including Gujarat. There are some demographic and other reasons which may affect the choice of transport service for institutional delivery.

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the factors for utilization of 108 EMRI obstetric care services for institutional delivery in Jamnagar district of Gujarat.

Materials and Methods: It was conducted in eight Primary Health Centre areas of different four talukas of Jamnagar district with a sample size of 384. Pregnant women whose institutional delivery occurred during past 6 months from the study date were included as the study population. The sampling frame consisted of a list of such woman recorded in E-Mamta from which samples were selected by systematic random sampling.

Results: Among 384 institutional deliveries, 150 (39.1%) mothers used 108 EMRI for transport from their place to a health facility. Statistically significant higher utilization of 108 EMRI services was observed among scheduled caste (49.2%), scheduled tribe (42.8%), and among socioeconomic Class V (55.3%) followed by Class IV (45.2%). Absence of felt need was the major reason for not utilizing 108 EMRI. Among user, 78.7% were satisfied with the services of 108 EMRI.

Conclusion: A total of 108 GVK EMRI has been the lifeline for transport of institutional deliveries for the socially disadvantaged and economically challenged community.

Key words: 108 GVK Emergency Management and Referral Institute; Utilization; Institutional Delivery; Obstetric Care