Assessing efficiency maternal and child health services in Morocco: data envelopement analysis and Tobit model.

Efficiency analysis of the Maternal, Newborn, and Child Services Network (MNCSN) is crucial for achieving SDG 2030. However, the mortality rates of maternal, newborn, and child have not reduced since 2018, and there have been limited studies conducted in Morocco on this subject. This study aims to analyze the technical efficiency of 82 MNCSN across primary healthcare Establishments Network (PHCEN) in Morocco in 2021 and identify factors influencing their efficiency. Technical efficiency was estimated using the Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) method with an input orientation. Tobit regression was employed to analyze factors affecting the technical efficiency of maternal and child healthcare. In the initial stage, the average efficiency score of the 82 MNCSN was 0.779 for constant returns, with 36 MNCSN achieving a score of 1. However, the Boujdour MNCSN recorded the lowest efficiency score of 0.033. In the second stage, Tobit regression revealed that Model 2 was more significant than Model 1. Specifically, the explanatory variable Rural Dispensary exhibited strong statistical significance and a positive impact on maternal and child health, followed by variables such as High-risk Pregnancies Supported and High-risk Pregnancies. The study findings suggest that the resources allocated for MNCSN in Morocco are not being efficiently utilized compared to some other African and European countries. Therefore, the Ministry of Health in Morocco should review the functions of MNCSN, aiming to improve the delivery of maternal, newborn, and child healthcare, regardless of the setting, be it urban or rural. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]