Health professionals’ perspectives on challenges in providing obstetrics and gynecology care in Kazakhstan: A qualitative study
Aliyeva S. Lokshin V. Kamaliev M. Sarmuldayeva S. Tsigengagel O.
2025Taylor and Francis Ltd.
International Journal of Healthcare Management
2025#18Issue 3487 - 493 pp.
Introduction: The study investigates obstetrics and gynecology (OB-GYN) care challenges in Kazakhstan, including a shortage of professionals, especially in remote areas, and increased work hours during COVID-19. This qualitative study aims to explore OB-GYN care challenges for primary care physicians and obstetricians to provide the insight necessary to develop a better healthcare system. Methods: We conducted interviews with 10 primary care physicians and four obstetricians practicing maternity care at hospitals. Participants were selected through purposive sampling, and data collection was conducted using in-depth interviews. Data were analyzed using MAXQDA software and conventional content analysis. Results: The research delineated four primary themes. These themes encompassed concerns regarding staffing insufficiencies, specifically within the OB-GYN specialization, discontentment with remuneration, and the anxiety surrounding malpractice litigation, all of which influenced their commitment to patient care. Conclusions: The findings underscore a widespread perception among healthcare professionals of staff shortages, especially in OB-GYN, leading to heavy workloads. Additionally, many professionals feel that their compensation is not commensurate with their substantial workloads, resulting in inequity. The impact of performance-based compensation and other contributing factors exacerbates these challenges within the healthcare system. Addressing these issues is crucial to enhancing the quality of OB-GYN care and the overall healthcare system in Kazakhstan.
health care levels , health policy , health services use , healthcare systems , Obstetrics and gynecology , quality care
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Department of Clinical Disciplines, Kazakhstan’s Medical University “Kazakhstan School of Public Health”, Almaty, Kazakhstan
Department of Gynecological, JSC Central Clinical Hospital, Almaty, Kazakhstan
Department of Assisted Reproductive Technologies, International Clinical Centre of Reproduction “PERSONA”, Almaty, Kazakhstan
Health Management, Kazakhstan’s Medical University “Kazakhstan School of Public Health”, Almaty, Kazakhstan
Medicine Department, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
Division of Developmental Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
Department of Clinical Disciplines
Department of Gynecological
Department of Assisted Reproductive Technologies
Health Management
Medicine Department
Division of Developmental Medicine
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