Maternal and child health policy: A global review of current practices and future directions
1 Independent Researcher, Nebraska, USA.
2 Institute of Human Virology, Abuja.
3 Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University, USA.
4 Department of Community Health and Primary Health Care, University of Lagos, Nigeria.
5 Department of Information Management, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria.
Review Article
World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2024, 21(02), 1770–1781
Publication history:
Received on 16 December 2023; revised on 23 January 2024; accepted on 25 January 2024
Abstract:
Maternal and child health remains a paramount concern worldwide, with policy frameworks playing a pivotal role in shaping outcomes for mothers and children. This paper provides a concise overview of the global landscape of maternal and child health policies, encompassing current practices and outlining key directions for the future. Current practices in maternal and child health policies vary significantly across regions and nations. Successful policies often integrate evidence-based interventions that span the continuum of care, from preconception to postpartum and early childhood. Maternal health policies typically focus on ensuring access to quality antenatal care, skilled birth attendance, and postnatal support. Child health policies emphasize immunization, nutrition, and early childhood development programs. However, disparities persist, reflecting the need for targeted interventions to address specific regional challenges. Future directions in maternal and child health policies emphasize a holistic and integrated approach. The global community recognizes the importance of addressing social determinants, promoting gender equity, and strengthening health systems to ensure comprehensive care for mothers and children. Innovations in digital health, community engagement, and cross-sectoral collaborations are identified as crucial components for improving policy effectiveness. Additionally, a life-course perspective, extending beyond childbirth to adolescence and beyond, is gaining prominence to address the evolving health needs of women and children. This paper provides a snapshot of the intricate landscape of maternal and child health policies globally. By understanding current practices and identifying future directions, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and stakeholders can contribute to advancing maternal and child health outcomes on a global scale.
Keywords:
Maternal; Child Health; Healthcare; Health Policy; Digital Health; Review
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Copyright © 2024 Author(s) retain the copyright of this article. This article is published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Liscense 4.0