Perspectives of health care providers on obstetric point-of-care ultrasound in lower-level health facilities in Kenya

Abstract

BackgroundUltrasound technology has become integral in antenatal care for its diagnostic effectiveness and potential to improve maternal and neonatal outcomes. Despite its proven benefits, challenges persist in its widespread adoption, particularly in low-resource settings like Kenya. Aim: The aim of this study was to explore the perspectives of healthcare providers regarding the integration of obstetric point-of-care ultrasound into routine maternal services in low-level facilities Kenya. MethodsUsing a descriptive qualitative study embedded in a large scale implementation study 76 healthcare providers who had undergone obstetric point-ofcare ultrasound training and were providing maternal services were purposively sampled from healthcare facilities across eight counties. Data was collected using structured audiotaped interviews, which were transcribed, and analyzed using thematic analysis. ResultsFive main themes with several subthemes emerged from the analysis: (1) Clinical Decision-Making (2) Quality of Services, (3) Training, (4)Technology Issues, and (5) Sustainability. DiscussionFindings from this study suggest that use of obstetric Point-of-Care Ultrasound in resource-limited primary care settings, can enhance clinical decision making and influence patient management, ultimately resulting in significant health outcomes. ConclusionEquipping health care providers with skills to conduct obstetric point of care ultrasound can lead to better-informed clinical decisions and ultimately contribute to improved health outcomes in underserved populations.