Evaluating emergency obstetric care education and training in a remote, fragile region of Southeast Asia

Background: Signal functions are a shortlist of key competencies set out by the World Health Organization to manage obstetric emergencies. Healthcare providers in low-to-middle income countries may lack these competencies. Education is key to reducing maternal mortality and achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3.

Objectives: To evaluate midwifery education within a medic training program, located in a remote region of Southeast
Asia. To identify if there are areas of potential enhancement to improve the management of obstetric emergencies.

Methods: This is an ethnographic study, utilizing a multi-methods approach. The current level of midwifery education is being assessed through documentary analysis and interviews with educators. Student experiences are being explored using focus groups, and a reflective field diary is providing insight into the lived experience of
postgraduate students. The full data set is being triangulated and analyzed using the READ approach.

Results: Preliminary results highlight the importance of aligning midwifery education and philosophy in the medic program. There is a key focus on practical learning, such as role-play and simulation, with the use of ‘humor’ suggested as a means to engage students. The optimization of technology to deliver midwifery education demonstrates a success in overcoming cultural and contextual factors, which has been paramount in responding to the current political situation and Covid-19 pandemic.

Conclusions: We anticipate the findings will facilitate the development of sustainable and culturally appropriate, educational
interventions that will enhance the education and training of medics at local, national, and international levels.