Geographic accessibility to hospital childbirths in Brazil (2010-2011 and 2018-2019): a cross-sectional study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Delays in obstetric care are associated with adverse maternal outcomes, while long-distance travel for delivery is associated with high neonatal mortality and increased maternal morbidity. Distance and travel time are key components of geographic accessibility to health services and important risk indicators for maternal and neonatal care. This study evaluated whether the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) has been geographically accessible in providing hospital childbirth services, over time.

Methods

Geographic accessibility to hospital deliveries in Brazil was mapped over two biennia (2010-2011 and 2018-2019), spanning a 10-year period, using national aggregated data from SUS Hospital Admissions Authorizations. Travel flows, distances, and times between women

SUBMITTER: Albuquerque PC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11742817 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature