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Effective utilization of maternal and child health records is a cornerstone for ensuring the continuity of care in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). A significant study published in early 2026 highlights that the ownership of home-based records (HBRs) is directly associated with higher quality maternal and child health (MCH) service utilization. These tools serve as a bridge between various stages of care, from pregnancy to early childhood.
In many resource-limited settings, maintaining a continuous medical history remains a challenge. Home-based records, which include vaccination cards and integrated handbooks, empower families to track their health status. Furthermore, these records facilitate communication between different healthcare providers. Therefore, they act as an essential repository of health information that follows the patient rather than staying at a single facility.
The recent multi-country analysis of Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) from 18 nations revealed compelling data. Specifically, women who owned HBRs had significantly higher odds of completing the full continuum of quality care. This continuum includes high-quality antenatal care (ANC), skilled birth attendance, and quality postnatal care (qPNC). Consequently, clinicians can rely on these records to ensure that no critical intervention is missed during the patient's journey.
While the study found that owning any form of HBR was beneficial, it also examined the specific role of the Integrated Maternal and Child Health Handbook (MCHHB). Interestingly, the results showed that the MCHHB might be more effective at facilitating specific diagnostic tests. For instance, handbook owners showed improved uptake of essential urine and blood tests during antenatal visits. However, for the overall continuum of care, both simple cards and integrated handbooks provided substantial benefits compared to having no record at all.
Clinicians and public health officials should prioritize the distribution and consistent use of these records. Additionally, future efforts must focus on training providers to document services accurately. When used correctly, these records reduce the risk of missed immunizations and ensure timely postpartum follow-ups. Ultimately, enhancing HBR ownership is a cost-effective strategy to improve clinical outcomes across diverse health systems.
HBRs improve service continuity by providing a portable medical history. They encourage mothers to seek care at the right intervals and help providers track essential vaccinations and screenings.
The Maternal and Child Health Handbook (MCHHB) is an integrated tool that covers both the mother's and the child's health. It often includes educational materials, unlike simple cards which may only record vaccinations.
Yes, research indicates that HBR ownership is associated with higher rates of skilled birth attendance and better adherence to diagnostic protocols, such as blood and urine tests during pregnancy.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.
References
1. Saito A et al. Association between the ownership of home-based records and continuous, quality maternal and child health service utilisation: a multi-country analysis of Demographic Health Surveys from 18 low- and middle-income countries. J Glob Health. 2026 Feb 13. doi: 10.7189/jogh.16.04052. PMID: 41678823.
2. World Health Organization. WHO recommendations on home-based records for maternal, newborn and child health. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2018.
3. Osaki K et al. A systematic review of home-based records in maternal and child health for improving informational continuity, health outcomes, and perceived usefulness in low and middle-income countries. PLOS One. 2022;17(8):e0267192.
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A study across 18 LMICs demonstrates that ownership of home-based records significantly boosts the utilization of quality maternal and child health services...
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