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Policy Brief: Sustaining Respectful Maternity Care in Health Facilities of Rwanda

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This policy brief presents actionable strategies for sustaining respectful maternity care (RMC) in health facilities across Rwanda. Drawing on quantitative and qualitative findings from a multi-method study conducted in five hospitals in the Eastern Province, the brief identifies five key strategies to institutionalize RMC: strengthening women-centered care, maintaining an enabling childbirth environment, upholding community trust, promoting professional conduct, and reinforcing supportive leadership. The proposed interventions align with WHO guidelines and national priorities, and offer a logical framework for policymakers, health leaders, and implementers to integrate RMC into Rwanda’s broader health system. The brief underscores the need for multi-level engagement and system-wide action to reduce mistreatment and improve maternal and newborn health outcomes.

Source: Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.15878261

Authors: Muhayimana, Alice, Gishoma, Darius, Tengera, Olive, Uhawenimana, C. Thierry, Kearns, Irene

Institutions: University of Rwanda, University of the Witwatersrand

Language: English

Topic: Global Maternal and Child Health

Subfield: Pediatrics, Perinatology and Child Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Gender equality

Open Access status: green

OpenAlex ID: W6930844569

FWCI:

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