Portable Health Clinic System for Maternal and Child Health Care in COVID-19 Pandemic Situation

Stud Health Technol Inform. 2022 Jun 29:295:213-216. doi: 10.3233/SHTI220700.

Abstract

Rural women in developing countries do not have any option but to visit the distant city to see the obstetricians and gynecologists in case of any maternal and child health issues. However, it becomes more difficult to travel during the COVID-19 pandemic situation. Thus, the telehealth service using the Portable Health Clinic can be very effective for maternal and child health care services. Since the PHC system provides home delivery services through the local health workers, the rural women can avail regular continuum of care services. This study found a 300% increase in participation in the continuum of care. This is not because they receive the service at home but also because they can receive consultancy from urban specialist doctors without travel during the pandemic situation.

Keywords: COVID-19; MCH Triage Protocol; Maternal & Child Health; Portable Health Clinic; Telehealth.

MeSH terms

  • Ambulatory Care Facilities
  • COVID-19* / epidemiology
  • Child
  • Child Health
  • Child Health Services*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Maternal Health Services*
  • Pandemics
  • Pregnancy