Selecting Indicators for Assessing the Functionality of Basic Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care Facilities in the Philippines: A Delphi Process

Abstract

Introduction. To address the problem of high maternal death, the Department of Health implemented the Basic Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (BEmONC) services at the level of primary care health facilities. These are key life-saving interventions that treat obstetric emergencies. Over a decade later, we need to assess and improve the program’s implementation.Objective. The study aims to select indicators for assessing the functionality of BEmONC facilities.Methods. Electronic Delphi process was used to select the indicators.Results. The two-round Delphi process was accepted by 21 respondents, with a 100% response rate. All 30 proposed indicators were retained following the criteria.Conclusion. Thirty indicators to assess the functionality of BEmONC facilities have been selected through theconsensus of an expert panel using the Delphi process. These indicators help evaluate BEmONC facilities, formulate policy, and guide new programs that promote maternal health.