Abstract:
Maternal health remains a major issue in Ghana. Policies and programmes to address this
phenomenon have been varied. The current policy by the Ministry of Health calls for
skilled birth attendance for all and barring traditional birth attendants (TBAs) from
conducting deliveries especially in communities with health facilities. No comprehensive
studies have assessed the likely impact and response to the new maternal health policy in
Ghana. The aim of this thesis therefore is to ascertain the views of local community
members and TBAs on the new health policy. A total of 27 interviews were held with key
stakeholders drawn from eight communities in the Ga-West Municipality of the Greater
Accra Region in Ghana. The results reveal that community members, TBAs and rural
health workers are generally unaware of any policy directive on the activities of TBAs.
Community members were of the opinion that, barring TBAs from conducting deliveries
will have serious implications for maternal health outcomes. It also came to light that the
policy has come about because of the TBAs’ inability to handle complications and the
delays parturient experience under TBAs which predispose them to maternal deaths.
Maternal health policies in Ghana need to take into consideration the socio-cultural setting
of the people for its implementation to be effective. Policy formulation and
implementation must involve all stake holders concerned.
