The Development of Basic Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (BEmONC) and Maternal Health in the Philippines: A Historical Literature Review

Abstract

Introduction. Implementation of Basic Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (BEmONC) aims to curb maternal mortality. However, the Philippines failed to significantly reduce the maternal mortality rate (MMR) targeted in the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Currently, the country is still far from the targeted Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This review describes the historical development of BEmONC in the Philippines over the past 13 years and provides insights on its role in decreasing MMR. Methods. We searched online for journal articles, publications, reports, policies, and other issuances related to BEmONC and maternal health in the Philippines. We accessed updates and data via correspondence with the Department of Health (DOH). Statistics were compiled from public databases. The identified citations were screened, appraised, synthesized, and analyzed in a historical approach. Results. A direct result of the Emergency Obstetric Care Approach, BEmONC was developed to respond to the high MMR in the Philippines, in line with global efforts to improve maternal health. However, BEmONC functionality generally remained inadequate. Conclusions. Although the provision of BEmONC services increased facility-based deliveries and skilled birth attendance during childbirth, this failed to decrease MMR and achieve targeted goals substantially. Further capacity-building is needed, especially in rural and resource-poor areas. Government issuances at the national and local levels should be aligned to complement each other. There should be a health systems approach that considers the building blocks of an efficient health care system and the social determinants that impact them.