The preference and practice of Nigerian obstetricians regarding focused versus standard models of prenatal care

Objective: To determine preferences, practices, and acceptance of focused versus standard prenatal-care models among Nigerian obstetricians.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was performed among clinicians who attended a conference held in Lagos, Nigeria, between November 27 and 29, 2013. The questionnaire assessed sociodemographic characteristics and opinions on prenatal care.

Results: A total of 201 delegates returned complete questionnaires. All respondents were aware of both models of prenatal care. Although 70 (34.8%) respondents stated a preference for focused care, only 6 (3.0%) used this model in clinical practice. The main reason for their preference was the evidence base (23.4%). Overall, 185 (92.0%) respondents stated institutional protocol determined preference for and practice of standard care, 108 (53.7%) believed patients preferred standard care, and 89 (44.3%) felt standard care had health benefits. Preference for one model over the other was significantly associated with type and level of the healthcare practice (P=0.002 and P<0.001, respectively). Modification of the focused model to meet local, national, and cultural needs was recommended by 171 (85.1%) respondents.

Conclusion: Most obstetricians are skeptical about focused prenatal care and have not embraced this model owing to personal, institutional, and sociocultural factors.