Maternal employment and household healthcare utilisation: the role of ICT

In the era of digitalisation, understanding the transformative role of ICT in shaping the relationship between maternal employment and household healthcare utilisation is of paramount importance. This study therefore examines the nexus among maternal employment, ICT and healthcare utilisation using round seven of the Ghana Living Standards Survey (GLSS 7). Our findings indicate that whilst mothers’ employment tends to be negatively associated with household healthcare utilisation especially for rural households, the use of smartphones is linked to a positive relationship between maternal employment and healthcare utilisation. For urban households, having ICT skills was found to be associated with a positive relationship between maternal employment and healthcare utilisation but not smartphones use. Our findings underscore the relevance of the expansion of ICT services and training particularly for working mothers. Bridging the digital divide is crucial to empower mothers and ensure equitable access to healthcare regardless of employment status. Additionally, strengthening the National Health Insurance scheme is essential to guarantee affordability and increase healthcare utilisation.