The Role of Socio-Economic Factors in Influencing Antenatal Care Quality and Stillbirth Rate in Rural Districts: A Case of Lejweleputswa (Using Structural Equation Modeling
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52783/jns.v14.4048Keywords:
Augmented Reality, Midwifery Education, Knowledge Enhancement, Skill Development, Digital LearningAbstract
Stillbirth and maternal mortality remain significant public health concerns in low- and middle-income countries, with rural areas disproportionately affected due to inadequate healthcare access and poor infrastructure. This study investigates the role of socio-economic factors in influencing the quality of antenatal care and their subsequent impact on stillbirth rates in rural South African settings, with a specific focus on the Lejweleputswa District. Despite national policy commitments, rural communities continue to experience disproportionately high rates of stillbirth. Using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), this study analyzed how variables such as maternal education, household income, access to healthcare services, and employment status affect antenatal care quality and stillbirth outcomes. The study employed a cross-sectional survey design with 263 respondents sampled from public healthcare facilities across the district. Findings revealed that socio-economic conditions significantly influence antenatal care quality, which in turn is strongly associated with stillbirth reduction. The results highlight the need for targeted policy interventions that address both economic and health system barriers to improve maternal and neonatal outcomes
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