The Influence of Group Antenatal Care (G-ANC) on Adherence to the Recommended Antenatal Care Visits

In Tanzania, while 90% of women attend at least one antenatal care (ANC) visit, only 61% complete the WHO‑recommended four visits (ANC4+). To address this gap, a group antenatal care (G‑ANC) model was implemented across six facilities in Chato and Geita districts. Pregnant women under 24 weeks were formed into groups of 8‑15 and participated in five structured 90‑minute sessions. Within one year, 2,924 women enrolled, and an impressive 90% (2,641) achieved ANC4+—a dramatic increase from the baseline of 49% under routine care. These results demonstrate G‑ANC’s effectiveness in improving attendance and supporting the WHO’s eight‑contact vision.