Informing Maternal and Child Health (MCH) policy through research

Maternal and Child Health (MCH) policy over the past two decades has been s trongly influenced by research. The paper presents examples of some of the research undertaken and its significant influence in shaping health service delivery. Research in child health has focussed on oral rehydration therap y, immunization and perinatal morbidity and mortality. On the maternal side , morbidity and mortality have been examined with particular focus on probl ems which contribute to maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Pol icies arising out of the outcome of these studies have influenced organizat ion of service delivery, information system development, manpower developme nt and deployment, maternal education, surveillance/auditing, quality of ca re, design of physical facilities and selection of equipment. The results o f these studies have also led to the identification of areas requiring furt her study and testing of intervention to correct the deficiencies identifie d. These studies demonstrate that research can and does influence health po licy, and has impacted positively on the quality and cost of care provided through our health services.