Improving emergency obstetric referral systems in low and middle income countries: a qualitative study in a tertiary health facility in Ghana
Timely access to emergency obstetric care is crucial in preventing mortalities associated with
pregnancy and childbirth. The referral of patients from lower levels of care to higher levels has been identified as
an integral component of the health care delivery system in Ghana. To this effect, in 2012, the National Referral
Policy and Guidelines was developed by the Ministry of Health (MOH) to help improve standard procedures and
reduce delays which affect access to emergency care. Nonetheless, ensuring timely access to care during referral of
obstetric emergencies has been problematic. The study aimed to identify barriers associated with the referral of
emergency obstetric cases to the leading national referral centre. It specifically examines the lived experiences of
patients, healthcare providers and relatives of patients on the referral system.
