The Impact of a Microfinance Program on Client Perceptions of the Quality of Care Provided by Private Sector Midwives in Uganda

Sohail Agha, Tulane University
Asma Balal, Commercial Market Strategies
Francis Ogojo-Okello, Commercial Market Strategies

Objective: To assess the impact of a microfinance program on the perceived quality of care received by clients and client loyalty to the clinics. Methods: A quasi-experimental study with a pre-test post-test design was used. Exit interviews were conducted at 15 intervention and 7 comparison clinics. Baseline exit interviews were conducted between November and December 2000. Five-days of business skills training were provided to midwives and loans (averaging $454) were given during January and February 2001. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to assess the impact. Results: The intervention resulted in a significant net improvement in clients’ perceptions of the quality of care received. The intervention was also associated with a higher level of client loyalty. Conclusions: A microfinance program that provides business skills training and revolving loans midwives can increase client loyalty by increasing client perceptions of the quality of care they receive.