Evaluating the Effectiveness of Point-of-care Diagnostic Technologies in MCH Services in Mozambique

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Point-of-care Diagnostic Technologies in MCH Services and Their Impact on Mother and Child Health Outcomes in Cabo Delgado Province, Mozambique

The general goal of the proposed study is to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of POC technologies for diagnosis of syphilis, quantitative analysis for hemoglobin and CD4 counting performed within MCH services to improve maternal and infant health.

A prospective, quasi-experimental study will be done in Cabo Delgado province, where health facilities will be randomized in an intervention or comparison arm. Outcomes on maternal and infant health will be measured.

Inclusion Criteria:

• First antenatal care visit
• Able to provide informed consent and signed consent form
• Minimum 18 years of age
• Diagnosed HIV positive at antenatal care visit
• Living in the catchment area of the health facility

Exclusion Criteria:

• Age <18 years
• No consent form signed
• Being on ART at time of first antenatal care visit