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An Evaluation of the Effect of Introduction of Mobile Phone Use in Ante-Natal Care (ANC) in Ikolomani Sub County, Kakamega County, Kenya
Gertrude Kasaya
Joseph Muchiri
Abstract
Mobile phone technology has revolutionized communication, making information and services more accessible, and fostering innovations in healthcare, particularly in maternal and child health (MCH). Timely interventions in healthcare can significantly improve outcomes for mothers and newborns. However, maternal and neonatal mortality rates remain high worldwide, with approximately 830 maternal deaths daily due to pregnancy or delivery complications. Almost all maternal deaths occur in developing countries, with rural and poorer mothers at greater risk. Additionally, around 2.8 million newborn deaths happen annually within the first 28 days of life, accounting for 45% of all under-five child deaths. This study aimed to assess the impact of introducing mobile phone use in antenatal care (ANC) in Ikolomani Sub County, Kakamega County, Kenya. Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) theory guided this research. The research utilized a correlational design, employing correlation and regression analysis to examine the relationship between mobile phone interventions and maternal health outcomes. The target population consisted of women of reproductive age in Ikolomani Sub County, with a sample size of 298 drawn using the Cochran Formula from a population of 32,803. Data were collected using the Kenya Health Information System (KHIS), ensuring a comprehensive and representative dataset. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and hypothesis testing, regression analysis, and Chi-Square tests were used to determine the association between mobile phone use and ANC outcomes. The findings indicated a positive trend, with 74.7% of participants confirming the use of mobile phones for ANC data capture. Regression analysis showed a significant positive association between mobile phone usage and ANC attendance (B = 0.285, p < 0.001), with mobile phone use accounting for 42.5% of the variation in ANC attendance. These results highlight the potential of mobile health interventions to enhance maternal healthcare delivery. This research concluded that introduction of mobile phone use has positively impacted ANC attendance in Ikolomani Sub County. Based on the positive impact observed, it is recommended that mobile technology be further integrated into maternal health services to improve data capture and accessibility for pregnant women.
