Association of regional disparity of obstetrics and gynecologic services with children and infants mortality rates: A cross-sectional study

Equity in distribution of resources is considered as an importantpriority in health care systems. Equitable distribution of obstetrics and gynecology(Ob/Gyn) services in the country level is critical in maternal and neonatal health forqualitative promotion of maternal care in pregnancy, delivery, and post-deliveryperiods.

The present study aimed at determining regional disparity of obstetricsand gynecology services and its association with children and infants mortality rates.

This was a descriptive-analytical study conducted in 2015to investigate distribution of Ob/Gyn services using three indicators of number ofnursing and midwifery personnel, total Ob/Gyn specialists, and total delivery bedsamong 30 provinces of the country. Equity criteria in the present study includedpopulation, normal vaginal deliveries, cesarean sections, and total deliveries. Datawere gathered using a researcher-made form and Stata 12 was used to calculate Ginicoefficient. The association of Ob/Gyn services with children and infant mortalityrates was investigated using SPSS package and linear regression test.

The lowest Gini coefficient was observed in distribution of nursing andmidwifery personnel in delivery wards in terms of vaginal delivery (0.38 from 1)and the highest value was related to distribution of Ob/Gyn specialists in terms ofvaginal delivery (0.73 from 1). Infant mortality was significantly associated withnumber of nursing and midwifery personnel in delivery wards, and total number ofOb/Gyn specialists.

Considering new population policies in Iran and increased fertility rate,it is recommended to facilitate accessibility of the required services for the women,particularly those of reproductive age.