Health system barriers affecting the provision of comprehensive abortion care in pastoralist communities of Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia.

Abstract

This study aimed to explore health system-level barriers affecting the provision of comprehensive abortion care (CAC) in pastoralist communities of Oromia regional state, Ethiopia. A total of 23 key informant interviews were conducted with healthcare providers at 14 selected health facilities, as well as with reproductive health officers at the woreda, zonal, and regional levels. Verbatim transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis with Open Code 4.03 software. The findings were thoroughly described and supported with direct quotes. Various systemic issues affecting abortion service delivery, including gaps in access and availability, shortage of skilled medical providers, financial constraints, poor management commitment, and gaps in legal framework implementation, were identified. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach that involves improving infrastructure, enhancing provider training, increasing community education, implementing policies effectively, and conducting advocacy efforts at all levels.