Objectives: To find out the status of utilization of MCH services after the induction of the indigenous system of medicine (ISM) lady doctors and CNMs for 24 x 7 services and the acceptance of this innovation by the health system and the community.
Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted during October to November 2008 in 10 blocks of 5 selected districts in Uttar Pradesh. Study subjects (CMO, MO I/C, ISM lady doctors, GNMs, PRI members) were interviewed and FGDs were also conducted.
Results: Shortages of medical and paramedical staff as well as facilities for institutional delivery at the district and block level were revealed. Only 6 out of 16 ISMs were trained. Knowledge of the ISMs/GNMs was lacking in many essential components of MCH including identifying high-risk pregnancy, high-risk newborn for urgent and timely referral. 36% could identify high-risk pregnancy and only 18% used partograph during labour. About 68% of the ISMs/GNMs were dissatisfied regarding honorarium, 59% with work conditions and 55% with delivery instrument. Induction of ISMs/GNMs were welcomed and accepted by medical officers and panchayets. Delay in payment of honorarium and pay disparity between MBBS doctors and ISM lady doctors and lack of proper logistic support were some of the problems facing the ISMs/GNMs.
Conclusion: For sustenance, in service training, provision of transport and accommodation, logistic support, well equipped labour room, timely monitoring and supervision, removal of pay disparities need to be ensured. The contractual appointment should also be made permanent and lucrative.