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Code5.51.01.06.matern
Indicator NameMaternal health (births attended by skilled health staff)
Short definitionBirths attended by skilled health staff are the percentage of deliveries attended by personnel trained to give the necessary supervision, care, and advice to women during pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period, to conduct deliveries on their own, and to care for the newborns.
Long definitionBirths attended by skilled health staff are the percentage of deliveries attended by personnel trained to give the necessary supervision, care, and advice to women during pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period, to conduct deliveries on their own, and to care for the newborns. High maternal mortality rates in many countries are the result of inadequate reproductive health care for women and inadequately spaced births. The indicator monitors the ability of the health system to provide good antenatal and postnatal care for women and relates to the fifth MDG aiming at improving maternal health, with a target of reducing by three-quarters, between 1990 and 2015, the maternal mortality ratio.
SourceWorld Development Indicator (WDI) databank. Original sources: UNICEF: State of the World's Children
TopicStatistical Capacity Indicator (SCI)
Statistical concept and methodologyScores are 1, 2/3, and 1/3 if the indicator was observed at least 3 times, 2 times, or once within 10 years. For assessment, look at 10 year interval starting two years before current and count number of data points available.
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