DefinePK

Abstract

This paper explores the multifactorial determinants affecting maternal and child health in the geographically remote and underserved areas of Neelum and Muzaffarabad in Pakistan. Also, it is possible to note that these regions have been characterized by high rates of maternal and infant mortality because of low access to quality healthcare, inadequate infrastructure, cultural practices, and overt socioeconomic inequality. Using cross-sectional research design, survey was conducted on a stratified proportional sample of 389 participants (233 mothers and 156 healthcare professionals). Structured questionnaires and interviews were used to collect data concentrating on the issues of healthcare use, nutrition habits, education, and sociocultural aspects.
The findings suggest that general awareness of prenatal care and nutritional requirements is quite high, but the provision of the services is deficient- particularly in rural Neelum. Following the prenatal supplements regimen, interaction with qualified medical care providers, as well as postnatal care services were significantly lower than in Muzaffarabad. Limitations within the health care system that were cited by healthcare professionals to be of critical concern in enhancing the health of mothers and children included poor outreach, cultural taboos, low levels of female literacy, and early marriages.
The paper highlights the critical importance of evidence-based and context-specific interventions to eliminate these disparities. It is also recommended to improve healthcare facilities in rural communities, to prepare the broader material on healthcare issues, to provide people with greater access to nutritional care, and to develop culturally competent community outreach efforts. The interventions are crucial in advancing towards Sustainable Development Goals, especially those related to the minimization of preventable maternal and child mortality in resource-constrained environments.