Document Type

Brief

Publication Date

2017

Abstract

As a partner on the Fistula Care Plus (FC+) project, the Population Council is conducting implementation research that tests solutions to treatment barriers. Formative research in Uganda found that a lack of knowledge among lower-level providers and women and families of how the condition occurs, where treatment is available, and the signs and symptoms of obstetric fistula, as well as transportation costs, affect women’s access to screening and repair. Baseline data reveal the necessity of a comprehensive intervention to address fistula treatment barriers in Uganda. Not only do primary healthcare providers lack adequate knowledge of fistula, referral, and counseling, but women and community members report that access barriers to fistula centers bring persistent logistical, financial, awareness, and social challenges. These findings inform the intervention, which builds on existing enablers in Uganda, such as media communication and social/transport support, and aims to promote greater access to fistula repair in the country.

DOI

10.31899/rh7.1040

Language

English

Project

Reducing Barriers to Fistula Care

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