Analysis of the determinants of the obstetric referral and counter-referral system at the Yaounde Gyneco-Obstetric and Pediatric Hospital (Cameroon)
Keywords:
Referral System, Counter-Referral, ObstetricsAbstract
Introduction: Obstetrical referral and counter-referral represents a major challenge in reduction of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. The objective of this work is to analyze the determinants of the obstetrical referral and counter-referral system at the Yaoundé Gyneco-Obstetric and Pediatric Hospital (YGOPH).
Methodology: A cross-sectional study with descriptive and analytical aims was conducted among 78 patients referred for obstetric reasons to the maternity department of YGOPH from May 15 to November 15, 2023. The data was collected with the aid of a
questionnaire and analyzed using Epi-Info 7.2.6.0 software.
Results: In total, we had 169 admissions, in which 78 were referred cases (46.2%) with an average age of 27.5 years and coming from peripheral hospitals (97.4%) with the main reasons being mechanical dystocia (31.2%) and the threat of premature delivery (19.4%).
These patients underwent an emergency caesarean section (39.7%). The care was provided within a reasonable time frame at HGOPY. No maternal deaths and 19.2% of neonatal deaths were recorded. Only one counter-referral form (1.6%) was signed. The
stay was extended due to lack of financial means (28.2%).
Conclusion: The obstetric referral and counter-referral system remains a serious problem. Better quality of referral and appropriate management could improve fetal maternal prognosis.
