Challenges and opportunities of integrating noncommunicable disease prevention into maternal health services
A qualitative study
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 23312546 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Doan Thi Thuy Duong (0000-0003-3052-2590, Vinmec International Hospital, corresponding author), Nga T Q Pham (World Health Organization - Pakistan), Téa Collins (0000-0002-7406-829X, World Health Organization), Duong M Duc (Hanoi University), Michelle L Hermiston (Vinmec International Hospital), Nguyen T Tuan (Vinmec International Hospital), Le T K Lam (0009-0009-8985-1074, Vinmec International Hospital) |
| Editors | Buna Bhandari (0000-0002-0102-8844) |
| Year | 2026 |
| Volume | 6 |
| Issue | 7 |
| Pages | e0005683 |
| Publication date | 2026-07-27 |
| Peer Reviewed | Yes |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | PLOS Global Public Health (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 2767-3375 • E-ISSN: 2767-3375 |
| Publisher | Public Library of Science (PLoS) (PUBLISHER) |
| DOI | 10.1371/journal.pgph.0005683 |
| PMID | 42507739 |
| OpenAlex | W7171425212 |
| Language | EN |
| References cited | 24 |
Pregnancy provides an opportunity to assess women’s health needs and engage them in appropriate healthcare services. This study explored how noncommunicable disease (NCD) prevention has been integrated into maternal health services in Vietnam and identified the barriers and facilitators influencing this process. We conducted in-depth interviews with 30 stakeholders, including policymakers, health managers, and providers in maternal healthcare services across different levels of care. Data were analyzed thematically using a conceptual framework. Recurring themes were identified and refined through discussions among investigators and technical advisors. Integrated NCD prevention and screening services were available before, during, and after pregnancy, particularly at higher-level public and private facilities, although mental health services remained limited. Limited primary healthcare capacity for maternal health and NCD prevention contributed to greater reliance on higher-level and private facilities. Most services packages relied on out-of-pocket payments rather than social health insurance coverage. Participants also identified gaps in service quality assurance, including counseling and continuity of care for women with NCDs, which may lead to inefficient service utilization and increased healthcare costs. NCD prevention services were integrated into maternal healthcare primarily at higher-level public and private facilities, whereas mental health care remained limited. Reliance on out-of-pocket payments, limited primary health care capacity, and gaps in continuity and quality of care may influence NCD prevention utilization and healthcare costs.
Health care · Mental health · Payment · Private sector · Public health · Qualitative research · Quality (philosophy) · Gestational Diabetes Research and Management · Global Maternal and Child Health · Healthcare Systems and Reforms · Health Policy
The Sage Handbook of Qualitative Research in Psychology
The pioneers of Vietnam’s epidemiological transition
I do want to ask, but I can’t speak’
Putting non-communicable disease data to work in Vietnam
Understanding the barriers to integrating maternal and mental health at primary health care in Vietnam
| Citation velocity | historical |
|---|---|
| Highly cited | No |