Quality of Care: A Neglected Dimension

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Abstract
This chapter examines the current state of thinking on quality of care as it pertains specifically to women's health. Reflecting the emphasis in Western health systems on advanced technology and specialized training, quality of care had been defined largely in terms of the clinical aspects of services, neglecting the patient-provider interaction. Judith Bruce has been influenced by Donabedian and Simmons in developing a conceptual framework which defines quality of care for family planning and related reproductive services. Inevitably, in a discussion of quality of care the issue of standards arises. There are some who might argue that in defining quality of care, universal standards are implicitly established. In attempting to upgrade services for women, it is important to describe both the structure and process of care-giving. If the quality of women's health care in developing countries is to improve, it is essential that policy makers and donor agencies make this an explicit item on their agendas.

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