Effects of free maternal healthcare on stunting in children under five years of age: Evidence from Ghana

MotivationAddressing stunting in early childhood can have lasting effects on an individual's health, productivity, and well-being in adulthood. By understanding the relationship between maternal healthcare policies and stunting, policy-makers can design interventions that contribute to a healthier and more productive society.PurposeThis study investigated the effect of providing free healthcare to pregnant mothers on child stunting.Approach and methodThe article uses doubly robust difference-in-difference estimator, drawing on Ghana Demographic and Health Survey.FindingsFree healthcare to mothers reduced stunting in the treatment regions by 12.3%. Evidence suggests the reform may have influenced children under the age of five through antenatal and delivery care attendance during pregnancy. Assistance during antenatal care and childbirth by health professionals improved significantly.Policy implicationsMaternal health investment yields great health benefits for children from in utero to their fifth birthday. Maternal fee exemptions should be continued to maintain and further improve stunting reduction in children. Government should prioritize improving access to quality maternal healthcare services, including antenatal and skilled birth attendance and emergency obstetric care.