Meeting the Global Target in Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health Care Services in Low- and Middle-Income Countries

Progress in reproductive, maternal, newborn,and child health care service coverage is increasing but is uneven between countries and across subgroups (in terms of wealth, place of residence, education, age, and sex) within countries. These coverage gaps are projected to continue.

By 2030, none of the low- and middle-income countries would be able to achieve the target of universal coverage for oral rehydration therapy for diarrhea treatment or to seek care for acute respiratory infections. Only a few countries are likely to achieve universal coverage for demand for family planning satisfied with modern contraceptive methods, recommended visits for antenatal care, and skilled birth attendant for assistance during birth.

When designing appropriate interventions for increasing the coverage of reproductive, maternal, newborn, and child health care services, program managers should consider disadvantaged and marginalized populations.

Acceleration is needed in coordinated global efforts and government policies focusing on marginalized groups, administering cost-effective interventions, and implementing proactive follow-up for routinely scheduled health care services.