THE IMPACT OF THE MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH CARE PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION OF MEDICAL COLLEGES OF NORTHERN PHILIPPINES – COLLEGE OF NURSING IN SAN ISIDRO, IGUIG, CAGAYAN: A PROGRAM EVALUATION

Reproductive Health, Maternal and Child Health Care, Nutrition, Prenatal Care, Postnatal Care

Abstract

The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Department of Health (DOH) on the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) has been directed towards health targets, ensuring healthy lives and promoting wellbeing for all at all ages. To fulfill these goals, intersectoral actions and linkages had been developed. Hence, the Medical Colleges of Northern Philippines (MCNP)-College of Nursing (CON), targeted to dwell and strengthen health systems to achieve Universal Health Care (UHC) in Maternal and Child Health Nursing. As a private academic institution, the MCNP-CON participated in the development of communities specifically focused on maternal and child health programs basing from the AO 2008-0029 entitled “Implementing Health Reforms for the Rapid Reduction of Maternal and Neonatal Mortality” as issued by the Department of Health.  It serves as a guide for the development, implementation and monitoring or evaluation of various programs aimed at improving the health of women, mothers and children. This focused community extension program of the institution aided in the reduction of the significant incidence of maternal and child mortality and morbidity as reproductive health education is still a taboo in the Philippines. The linkage between education and health plays a pivotal role in giving better understanding on maternal and child health care focusing on pregnancy including prevention of diseases, health promotion and treatment of problems during the pregnancy- puerperal cycle, for both woman and the new born; care of infant and children including promotion of health and prevention of diseases through proper nutrition, good personal hygiene, micronutrient supplementation and immunization. This study was conducted by the MCNP -CON faculty to around 40 selected population using the cluster sampling technique. Descriptive Inferential research design was used and utilized through structured questionnaires. The data gathered was analyzed with the use of Frequency and Percentage distribution and Weighted Mean and Likert Scale. The overall satisfaction of the respondents on the impact of the study was significantly achieved which can be attributed through their active involvement and participation during the conduct of the different programs that hasten their full understanding of the objectives of the program. Significant contribution of the demographic factors of the respondents to the satisfaction level of the program implementation regarding maternal and child health care can be as well noted.To conclude, this study highlights the critical role of the Higher Education Institution (HEIs)  on community development. The significant contribution of HEIs on program implementation, specifically the College of Nursing, drastically shaped the community to become aware of the different factors that can contribute to maternal and child morbidity and mortality. Though findings are quite satisfactory, it is still essential to underscore the need for tailored, data-driven interventions to still address gaps in awareness, particularly among marginalized groups. By leveraging these insights to inform policy and program development, stakeholders can design targeted educational campaigns that promote more equitable access to reproductive health knowledge, empowering individuals to make informed decisions and fostering improved public health outcomes.