Tackling complexities in maternal care using an e-health solution: a case study of doctor-patient relationship at Federal Medical Center, Yola.

Abstract

The rate of maternal mortality in the recent time is so alarming due to weak health systems, poor doctor-patient relationship, and non-existence of e-health management system to efficiently maintain, handle the patient’s record and schedule appointments for pregnant women from the first to last trimester which will reduce unnecessary waiting line that causes stress to both the patient and doctors. This study aims at facilitating the maternal care delivery at Federal Medical Center, Yola by, first determines the factors that influence the quality care through doctor-patient relationship. An empirical method (quantitative and qualitative) was used for this research and the target population consisted of pregnant women aged between 18-50 years and above to 50 years. Data was gathered from administering questionnaires that explored the perception of both doctor and patient relationships. One-to-one interviews, focal group, meetings, and personal observations were also made. Over three weeks, an average of 40 interviews was conducted on every Tuesday and Thursdays during the biweekly antenatal clinic. The mean age of doctors who participated was 36 years (Standard deviation = 0.828), with 80 percent males and 20 percent females who have been practicing in the hospital for 10 years or less in the hospital. Most of the doctors’ orientations (80 percent) were towards doctor-centered care, including paternalism, which assumes that the doctor is the expert and the patient only needs to cooperate. About 40 percent of doctors do not always have time to explore their patients’ ideas and concerns, which do not support a partnership model. The majority of doctors and patients who participated (46.7 percent and 43.3 percent, respectively), believe that the communication barrier affects their relationships. As a solution to barriers identified, a software Maternal Care Management System (www.fmc-hms.com.ng) was designed and implemented using PHP and MySQL database solution that have centralized domain for smooth operation which, if effectively adopted and implemented can be integrated into the entire operation of the hospital. The E-health management system will improve the productivity as well simplify operation that will positively impact the efficiency and quality of maternal care in obstetrics and Gynecology unit at the FMC.