Voucher scheme aids access to safe motherhood services

In Nairobi, more than 780 women each year come to the Marie Stopes Kenya Eastleigh Obstetric Centre, safe in the knowledge that they are getting the highest quality specialist care throughout their pregnancy and during the birth. At least 18,000 safe deliveries of these came through a KfW-supported voucher programme in which women from underserved communities can access quality services from pre-approved public, NGO and private providers in exchange for a voucher purchased in advance. Providers are reimbursed by the relevant government body on the basis of services provided in exchange for the voucher. Since 2005, Marie Stopes International has been on the leading edge of the design, management and implementation of voucher programmes for maternal health in Kenya.