Author ORCID Identifier
R. M. Kabila: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6602-5011
Selvalakshmi M.: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3303-287X
Pragha P.: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7057-8364
Abstract
The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) emphasize universal health coverage by 2030, with maternity and child health as key priorities. In India, achieving these goals requires addressing Social Determinants of Health (SDH) alongside improving healthcare access. This study examines factors influencing the adoption of mobile health (mHealth) devices in antenatal care among pregnant women in the Bottom of the pyramid (BoP) segment. Using purposive sampling, single-gender semi-structured interviews were conducted with BoP healthcare consumers across 17 National Rural Health Mission villages lacking Primary Health Centers in 10 districts. Data was analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis and interpreted through a three-dimensional women’s empowerment framework. Findings reveal barriers such as limited technological experience, low risk perception of pregnancy, traditional birth practices, gender norms, financial constraints, and restricted access to wearables. Trust-based relationships with healthcare providers emerged as a key enabler. The study recommends awareness initiatives, integration of wearables into public health programs, localized user-friendly designs, and community-based interventions to enhance maternal health outcomes in BoP communities.
Recommended Citation
Kabila, R.,
Sivakumar, V.,
Selvalakshmi, M.,
&
Pragha, P.
(In press).
Towards Inclusive Healthcare: Pregnant Women in BoP and the Promise of Wearable Devices.
Information Technology for Development.
Available at:
https://aisel.aisnet.org/itd/vol32/iss3/12