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Kuppermann M, Pressman A, Coleman-Phox K, Afulani P, Blebu B, Carraway K, Butcher BC, Curry V, Downer C, Edwards B, Felder JN, Fontenot J, Garza MA, Karasek D, Lessard L, Martinez E, McCulloch CE, Oberholzer C, Ramirez GR, Tesfalul M, Wiemann A. A randomized comparative-effectiveness study of two enhanced prenatal care models for low-income pregnant people: Engaging Mothers & Babies; Reimagining Antenatal Care for Everyone (EMBRACE). Contemp Clin Trials 2024; 143:107568. [PMID: 38750950 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2024.107568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Improving perinatal mental health and care experiences and preventing adverse maternal and infant outcomes are essential prenatal care components, yet existing services often miss the mark, particularly for low-income populations. An enhanced group prenatal care program, "Glow! Group Prenatal Care and Support," was developed in California's Central Valley in response to poor perinatal mental health, disrespectful care experiences, and high rates of adverse birth outcomes among families with low incomes. METHODS Engaging Mothers & Babies; Reimagining Antenatal Care for Everyone (EMBRACE) is a pragmatic, two-arm, randomized, comparative-effectiveness study designed to assess depression (primary outcome), the experience of care (secondary outcome), and preterm birth (exploratory outcome) among Medi-Cal (California's Medicaid program)-eligible pregnant and birthing people, comparing those assigned to Glow! Group Prenatal Care and Support (Glow/GC) with those assigned to enhanced, individual prenatal care through the California Department of Public Health's Comprehensive Perinatal Services Program (CPSP/IC). Participating clinical practices offer the two comparators, alternating between comparators every 6 weeks, with the starting comparator randomized at the practice level. Participant-reported outcomes are assessed through interviewer-administered surveys at study entry, during the participant's third trimester, and at 3 months postpartum; preterm birth and other clinical outcomes are abstracted from labor and delivery records. Patient care experiences are further assessed in qualitative interviews. The protocol complies with the Standard Protocol Items for Randomized Trials. CONCLUSIONS This comparative-effectiveness study will be used to determine which of two forms of enhanced prenatal care is more effective, informing future decisions regarding their use. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04154423.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Kuppermann
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America; The California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America.
| | - Alice Pressman
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Kimberly Coleman-Phox
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America; The California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Patience Afulani
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America; The California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Bridgette Blebu
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States of America
| | - Kristin Carraway
- Central Valley Health Policy Institute, California State University, Fresno, Fresno, CA, United States of America
| | - Brittany Chambers Butcher
- Department of Human Ecology, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States of America
| | - Venise Curry
- Central Valley Health Policy Institute, California State University, Fresno, Fresno, CA, United States of America
| | - Chris Downer
- Medical Education Program, University of California, San Francisco, Fresno, CA, United States of America
| | - Brittany Edwards
- Central Valley Health Policy Institute, California State University, Fresno, Fresno, CA, United States of America
| | - Jennifer N Felder
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Jazmin Fontenot
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America; The California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Mary A Garza
- Central Valley Health Policy Institute, California State University, Fresno, Fresno, CA, United States of America; Department of Public Health, College of Health and Human Services, California State University, Fresno, Fresno, CA, United States of America
| | - Deborah Karasek
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America; The California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Lauren Lessard
- Central Valley Health Policy Institute, California State University, Fresno, Fresno, CA, United States of America; Institute for Circumpolar Health Studies, University of Alaska, Anchorage, Anchorage, AK, United States of America
| | - Erica Martinez
- Central Valley Health Policy Institute, California State University, Fresno, Fresno, CA, United States of America
| | - Charles E McCulloch
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Christy Oberholzer
- Central Valley Health Policy Institute, California State University, Fresno, Fresno, CA, United States of America
| | - Guadalupe R Ramirez
- Children and Families Commission of Fresno County, Fresno, CA, United States of America
| | - Martha Tesfalul
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America; The California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Andrea Wiemann
- Central Valley Health Policy Institute, California State University, Fresno, Fresno, CA, United States of America
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Karvonen KL, Smith O, Chambers-Butcher B, Afulani P, Mathis-Perry T, Rangwalla K, McLemore M, Rogers EE. Parent and staff focus groups to address NICU racial inequities: "There's radical optimism in that we're in a different time and we're not doing it alone". J Perinatol 2024:10.1038/s41372-024-02063-6. [PMID: 39025956 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-024-02063-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To understand local mechanisms of racial inequities and generate recommendations from community members regarding how to promote racial equity in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). METHODS In an urban tertiary care NICU, 4 semi-structured in-person focus groups with follow-up audio diaries were conducted with NICU parents and staff from 2022-2023 with support from interpreters, a psychologist, and a family advocate. Researchers coded transcripts independently and thematic analysis was utilized to generate and refine themes. RESULTS 16 racially diverse and multidisciplinary staff and parents participated, and six themes emerged from the data. Mechanisms of racial inequities included power dynamics, interpersonal and institutional dehumanization, and societal inequities. Recommendations included redistributing power, transforming space and staff to promote humanism, and mitigating harm through peer support and resource allocation. CONCLUSION Focus groups are a promising strategy to identify interventions to address racial inequities. Future research should focus on intervention implementation and evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla L Karvonen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Olga Smith
- Independent Researcher, Antioch, CA, USA
| | - Brittany Chambers-Butcher
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Human Ecology, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Patience Afulani
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Khuzaima Rangwalla
- University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Monica McLemore
- Department of Child, Family, and Population Health Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Elizabeth E Rogers
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Miller ML, Dupree J, Monette MA, Lau EK, Peipert A. Health Equity and Perinatal Mental Health. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2024:10.1007/s11920-024-01521-4. [PMID: 39008146 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-024-01521-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Pregnancy and the postpartum period are vulnerable times to experience psychiatric symptoms. Our goal was to describe existing inequities in perinatal mental health, especially across populations, geography, and in the role of childbirth. RECENT FINDINGS People of color are at an increased risk for perinatal mental health difficulties and more likely to experience neglect, poor communication, and racial discrimination. LGBTQ + individuals encounter unique challenges, implicating the role of heteronormativity, cisnormativity, and gender dysphoria through pregnancy-related processes. Rural-dwelling women are significantly less likely to seek care, be screened for, or receive treatment for perinatal mental health conditions. Trauma-informed, comprehensive mental health support must be provided to all patients during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, especially for racially and ethnically minoritized individuals that have often been omitted from care. Future research needs to prioritize inclusion of perinatal populations not well represented in the literature, including rural-dwelling individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle L Miller
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Goodman Hall / IU Health Neuroscience Center, Suite 2800 355 W. 16 St. Indianapolis, IN, 46202, Indiana, United States.
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Adekunle TB. US black women's pregnancy communication networks: A qualitative network analysis. Soc Sci Med 2024; 353:117028. [PMID: 38943860 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.117028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
The ongoing Black maternal health crisis necessitates a closer examination of how Black women in the United States utilize communication to mitigate the dangers racism poses for pregnancy, delivery and the postpartum period. Previous studies have highlighted the importance of supportive networks to Black women's wellbeing during pregnancy. However, few studies utilize a qualitative network approach to explore communication about pregnancy and related risks within a social network. Twenty-eight Black women from 12 US states who self-identified as previously, currently or recently pregnant, were recruited to participate in this study. Following data collection, participants' networks and related commentary from the interview were qualitatively analyzed for composition and context of networks (who is in the network and why?) and the content of communication (what is discussed and how?). This study found that Black women's perceptions of pregnancy risk and enactment of agency in response to risk was influenced by communication with individuals within their communication networks. The findings of this study also demonstrate that emotional support and guidance for navigating the dangers of the healthcare system constituted an important component of communication with strong ties, including partners, family members and close friends. Additionally, Black women enacted agency in response to pregnancy risk by leaning on trusted experts (healthcare providers) within their networks. However, this study also found limitations to the role of pregnancy communication networks. First, negative ties (relations) with alters (individuals with whom Black women have communication ties) and unwanted advice or guidance was found to be a source of stress. Furthermore, although mothers were an essential source of support for many women, differences related to generation, culture and the circumstances of pregnancy limited the relevance of the advice Black women receive from their mothers. Finally, immigrant women faced an additional challenge, as their support networks were sometimes geographically distant from them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiwaladeoluwa B Adekunle
- Center for Education in Health Sciences, Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
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Houghton LC, Adkins-Jackson PB. Mixed-Method, Multilevel Clustered-Randomized Control Trial for Menstrual Health Disparities. PREVENTION SCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR PREVENTION RESEARCH 2024; 25:459-473. [PMID: 38358576 PMCID: PMC11239736 DOI: 10.1007/s11121-024-01646-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Menstrual cycle characteristics are largely considered unmodifiable reproductive factors, a framing that prevents exploration of the ways structural factors interfere with menstrual health. Given the role of structural factors like healthy food and healthcare access on reproductive health and the grave need for structural interventions to known reproductive health disparities that disproportionately target cisgender women racialized as Black, it is imperative that science begin to examine how structural factors influence menstrual health. To explore such research, we employ critical race theory and intersectionality to illustrate what a structural intervention to improve menstrual cycle health could look like. Centering those with the greatest need, persons racialized as Black and/or LatinX living in food and healthcare deserts in Northern Manhattan, our illustrative sample includes four groups of persons who menstruate (e.g., cisgender girls and women) that are pre-menarche, pre-parous, postpartum, or perimenopausal. We describe a hypothetical, multilevel clustered-randomized control trial (cRCT) that provides psychoeducation on racism-related trauma and free delivered groceries to both treatment and control groups, while randomizing 30 clusters of housing associations to receive either sexual health clinics at their housing association or free vouchers for healthcare. We embed mixed methods (diaries, interviews, surveys, mobile apps, observation) into the design to evaluate the effectiveness of the 1-year intervention, in addition to determining the impact on participants through their perspectives. Through this illustration, we provide a novel example of how structural interventions can apply mixed methods to evaluate effectiveness while delivering services to populations impacted by multiple structural factors. We demonstrate how qualitative and quantitative approaches can be paired in clustered RCTs and how a living logic model can empirically incorporate the population perspective into more effective interventions. Lastly, we reveal how sensitive menstrual health is to structural factors and how upstream improvements will trickle down to potentially reduce health disparities in reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren C Houghton
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, USA.
| | - Paris B Adkins-Jackson
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, USA
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, USA
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Howell FM, McCarthy KJ, Boychuk N, Burdick M, Nowlin S, Maru S, Oshewa O, Monterroso M, Rodriguez A, Katzenstein C, Longley R, Cabrera C, Howell EA, Levine L, Janevic T, Gundersen DA. Racism in obstetric care: a psychometric study of the Gendered Racial Microaggressions Scale among Global Majority birthing people in obstetric contexts. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2024; 24:448. [PMID: 38943057 PMCID: PMC11214214 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-024-06642-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024] Open
Abstract
In the United States, maternal health inequities disproportionately affect Global Majority (e.g., Asian, Black, and Hispanic) populations. Despite a substantial body of research underscoring the influence of racism on these inequities, little research has examined how experiences of gendered racial microaggressions during pregnancy and birth impact racially and ethnically diverse Global Majority pregnant and birthing people in obstetric hospital settings. We evaluated the psychometric properties of an adapted version of Lewis & Neville's Gendered Racial Microaggressions Scale, using data collected from 417 Global Majority birthing people. Findings from our study indicate that our adapted GRMS is a valid tool for assessing the experiences of gendered racial microaggressions in hospital-based obstetric care settings among Global Majority pregnant and birthing people whose preferred languages are English or Spanish. Item Response Theory (IRT) analysis demonstrated high construct validity of the adapted GRMS scale (Root Mean Square Error of Approximation = 0.1089 (95% CI 0.0921, 0.1263), Comparative Fit Index = 0.977, Standardized Root Mean Square Residual = 0.075, log-likelihood c2 = -85.6, df = 8). IRT analyses demonstrated that the unidimensional model was preferred to the bi-dimensional model as it was more interpretable, had lower AIC and BIC, and all items had large discrimination parameters onto a single factor (all discrimination parameters > 3.0). Given that we found similar response profiles among Black and Hispanic respondents, our Differential Item Functioning analyses support validity among Black, Hispanic, and Spanish-speaking birthing people. Inter-item correlations demonstrated adequate scale reliability, α = 0.97, and empirical reliability = 0.67. Pearsons correlations was used to assess the criterion validity of our adapted scale. Our scale's total score was significantly and positively related to postpartum depression and anxiety. Researchers and practitioners should seek to address instances of gendered racial microaggressions in obstetric settings, as they are manifestations of systemic and interpersonal racism, and impact postpartum health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances M Howell
- Department of Population Health Science Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 722 W 168th Street, Room 722, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 1770 Madison Avenue, 2nd Floor, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
- , Present Address: New York, USA.
| | - Katharine J McCarthy
- Department of Population Health Science Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 722 W 168th Street, Room 722, New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1770 Madison Avenue, 2nd Floor, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Natalie Boychuk
- Department of Population Health Science Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 722 W 168th Street, Room 722, New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 1770 Madison Avenue, 2nd Floor, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- , Present Address: New York, USA
| | - Micki Burdick
- Department of Women & Gender Studies, University of Delaware, 25N College Ave. 205 McDowell Hall, Newark, DE, 19716, USA
- , Philadelphia, USA
| | - Sarah Nowlin
- Department of Population Health Science Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 722 W 168th Street, Room 722, New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Center for Nursing Research and Innovation, Mount Sinai Health System, 19 East 98th Street, 3rd Floor, Suite E, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Sheela Maru
- Department of Health System Design and Global Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
- Arnhold Institute for Global Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1216 Fifth Ave, 5th Floor, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- New York City Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst, 1216 Fifth Ave, 5th Floor, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Oluwadamilola Oshewa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Maria Monterroso
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Alva Rodriguez
- Department of Health System Design and Global Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
- Arnhold Institute for Global Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1216 Fifth Ave, 5th Floor, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Cecilia Katzenstein
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Box 1199, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Regina Longley
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Box 1199, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Camila Cabrera
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Box 1199, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Howell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Spruce Street, 5 Dulles, Philadelphia, PA, 19194, USA
| | - Lisa Levine
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Spruce Street, 2 Silverstein, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Teresa Janevic
- Department of Population Health Science Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 722 W 168th Street, Room 722, New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 1770 Madison Avenue, 2nd Floor, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1770 Madison Avenue, 2nd Floor, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- , Present Address: New York, USA
| | - Daniel A Gundersen
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, USA
- Rutgers Institute for Nicotine and Tobacco Studies, Rutgers the State University of New Jersey, 303 George Street, Suite 500 New, Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
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Nijagal MA, Odiase OJ, Bell AJ, El Ayadi AM, Williams S, Nicolaisen C, Jacobs G, Mack B, LaSerre M, Stewart C, Crockett K, Afulani PA. The Family and Pregnancy Pop-Up Village: Developing a one-stop shop of services to reduce pregnancy care-related inequities in San Francisco. Birth 2024. [PMID: 38887141 DOI: 10.1111/birt.12839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Centering affected individuals and forming equitable institutional-community partnerships are necessary to meaningfully transform care delivery systems. We describe our use of the PRECEDE-PROCEED framework to design, plan, and implement a novel care delivery system to address perinatal inequities in San Francisco. METHODS Community engagement (PRECEDE phases 1-2) informed the "Pregnancy Village" prototype, which would unite key organizations to deliver valuable services alongside one another, as a recurring "one-stop-shop" community-based event, delivered in an uplifting, celebratory, and healing environment. Semi-structured interviews with key partners identified participation facilitators and barriers (PRECEDE phases 3-4) and findings informed our implementation roadmap. We measured feasibility through the number of events successfully produced and attended, and organizational engagement through meeting attendance and surveys. RESULTS The goals of Pregnancy Village resonated with key partners. Most organizations identified resource constraints and other participation barriers; all committed to the requested 12-month pilot. During its first year, 10 pilot events were held with consistent organizational participation and high provider engagement. CONCLUSION Through deep engagement and equitable partnerships between community and institutional stakeholders, novel systems of care delivery can be implemented to better meet comprehensive community needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malini A Nijagal
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Osamuedeme J Odiase
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - April J Bell
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Alison M El Ayadi
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Schyneida Williams
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Chloe Nicolaisen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Montefiore Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Garrett Jacobs
- Designing Justice + Designing Spaces (DJDS), Oakland, California, USA
| | - Brandi Mack
- Designing Justice + Designing Spaces (DJDS), Oakland, California, USA
| | - Monique LaSerre
- Rafiki Coalition for Health and Wellness, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Chelsea Stewart
- Rafiki Coalition for Health and Wellness, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - Patience A Afulani
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
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Interrante JD, Pando C, Fritz AH, Kozhimannil KB. Perinatal care among Hispanic birthing people: Differences by primary language and state policy environment. Health Serv Res 2024. [PMID: 38881220 DOI: 10.1111/1475-6773.14339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study aims to examine maternal care among Hispanic birthing people by primary language and state policy environment. DATA SOURCES AND STUDY SETTING Pooled data from 2016 to 2020 Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System surveys from 44 states and two jurisdictions. STUDY DESIGN Using multivariable logistic regression, we calculated adjusted predicted probabilities of maternal care utilization (visit attendance, timeliness, adequacy) and quality (receipt of guideline-recommended care components). We examined outcomes by primary language (Spanish, English) and two binary measures of state policy environment: (1) expanded Medicaid eligibility to those <133% Federal Poverty Level, (2) waived five-year waiting period for pregnant immigrants to access Medicaid. DATA COLLECTION/EXTRACTION METHODS Survey responses from 35,779 postpartum individuals with self-reported Hispanic ethnicity who gave birth during 2016-2020. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Compared to English-speaking Hispanic people, Spanish-speaking individuals reported lower preconception care attendance and worse timeliness and adequacy of prenatal care. In states without Medicaid expansion and immigrant Medicaid coverage, Hispanic birthing people had, respectively, 2.3 (95% CI:0.6, 3.9) and 3.1 (95% CI:1.6, 4.6) percentage-point lower postpartum care attendance and 4.2 (95% CI:2.1, 6.3) and 9.2 (95% CI:7.2, 11.2) percentage-point lower prenatal care quality than people in states with these policies. In states with these policies, Spanish-speaking Hispanic people had 3.3 (95% CI:1.3, 5.4) and 3.0 (95% CI:0.9, 5.1) percentage-point lower prenatal care adequacy, but 1.3 (95% CI:-1.1, 3.6) and 2.7 (95% CI:0.2, 5.1) percentage-point higher postpartum care quality than English-speaking Hispanic people. In states without these policies, those same comparisons were 7.3 (95% CI:3.8, 10.8) and 7.9 (95% CI:4.6, 11.1) percentage-points lower and 9.6 (95% CI:5.5, 13.7) and 5.3 (95% CI:1.8, 8.9) percentage-points higher. CONCLUSIONS Perinatal care utilization and quality vary among Hispanic birthing people by primary language and state policy environment. States with Medicaid expansion and immigrant Medicaid coverage had greater equity between Spanish-speaking and English-speaking Hispanic people in adequate prenatal care and postpartum care quality among those who gave birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia D Interrante
- Division of Health Policy and Management, University of Minnesota, University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Cynthia Pando
- Division of Health Policy and Management, University of Minnesota, University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Alyssa H Fritz
- Division of Health Policy and Management, University of Minnesota, University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Katy B Kozhimannil
- Division of Health Policy and Management, University of Minnesota, University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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9
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Mayne GB, Ghidei L. The impact of devaluing Women of Color: stress, reproduction, and justice. Birth 2024; 51:245-252. [PMID: 38695278 DOI: 10.1111/birt.12825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
This commentary is in response to the Call for Papers put forth by the Critical Midwifery Studies Collective (June 2022). We argue that due to a long and ongoing history of gendered racism, Women of Color are devalued in U.S. society. Devaluing Women of Color leads maternal healthcare practitioners to miss and even dismiss distress in Women of Color. The result is systematic underdiagnosis, undertreatment, and the delivery of poorer care to Women of Color, which negatively affects reproductive outcomes generally and birth outcomes specifically. These compounding effects exacerbate distress in Women of Color leading to greater distress. Stress physiology is ancient and intricately interwoven with healthy pregnancy physiology, and this relationship is a highly conserved reproductive strategy. Thus, where there is disproportionate or excess stress (distress), unsurprisingly, there are disproportionate and excess rates of poorer reproductive outcomes. Stress physiology and reproductive physiology collide with social injustices (i.e., racism, discrimination, and anti-Blackness), resulting in pernicious racialized maternal health disparities. Accordingly, the interplay between stress and reproduction is a key social justice issue and an important site for theoretical inquiry and birth equity efforts. Fortunately, both stress physiology and pregnancy physiology are highly plastic-responsive to the benefits of increased social support and respectful maternity care. Justice means valuing Women of Color and valuing their right to have a healthy, respected, and safe life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella B Mayne
- Department of Health and Behavioral Sciences, University of Colorado, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Luwam Ghidei
- Reproductive Specialists of the Carolinas, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
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Gates K, Chahin S, Damashek A, Dickson C, Lubwama G, Lenz D, Bautista T, Kothari C. The Relation of Maternal Psychosocial Risk Factors to Infant Safe Sleep Practices. Matern Child Health J 2024; 28:1061-1071. [PMID: 38460074 DOI: 10.1007/s10995-023-03880-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Sleep-related infant deaths are a common and preventable cause of infant mortality in the United States. Moreover, infants of color are at a greater risk of sleep-related deaths than are White infants. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) published safe sleep guidelines to minimize the number of sleep-related infant deaths; however, many families face barriers to following these guidelines. Research on the role of psychosocial risk factors (i.e., depression, stress, domestic violence, substance use) in mothers' engagement in safe sleep practices is limited. The present study examined the role of maternal psychosocial risk factors on maternal safe sleep practices and the moderating effects of maternal race on this relationship. METHODS Participants in this study were mothers (N = 274) who were recruited from a Midwestern hospital postpartum. Data on the participants' psychosocial risk factors, and safe sleep practices were collected via telephone interview 2-4 months following the birth of their infant. RESULTS Predictive models indicated that depression and stress impacted mothers' engagement in following the safe sleep guidelines. Specifically, higher levels of maternal depression predicted greater likelihood of co-sleeping, regardless of mothers' race. Higher levels of maternal stress also predicted lower engagement in safe sleep behaviors for White mothers only. CONCLUSION FOR PRACTICE Early interventions to address stress and depression may help to increase maternal adherence to the AAP's safe sleep guidelines. Additional research on the underlying mechanisms of depression and stress on maternal safe sleep engagement is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalani Gates
- Department of Psychology, Western Michigan University, 1903 W. Michigan, Kalamazoo, MI, 49008, USA
| | - Summer Chahin
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine, 300 Portage St., Kalamazoo, MI, 49007, USA
| | - Amy Damashek
- Department of Psychology, Western Michigan University, 1903 W. Michigan, Kalamazoo, MI, 49008, USA.
| | - Cheryl Dickson
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine, 300 Portage St., Kalamazoo, MI, 49007, USA
| | - Grace Lubwama
- Kalamazoo Community Foundation, 402 E. Michigan, Kalamazoo, MI, 49007, USA
| | - Debra Lenz
- Kalamazoo County Health and Community Services Department, 311 E. Alcott St., Kalamazoo, MI, 49006, USA
| | | | - Catherine Kothari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine, 1000 Oakland Dr., Kalamazoo, MI, 49008, USA
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Clark RRS, Klaiman T, Sliwinski K, Hamm RF, Flores E. Using incident reports to diagnose communication challenges for precision intervention in learning health systems: A methods paper. Learn Health Syst 2024; 8:e10425. [PMID: 38883872 PMCID: PMC11176586 DOI: 10.1002/lrh2.10425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Poor communication is a leading root cause of preventable maternal mortality in the United States. Communication challenges are compounded with the presence of biases, including racism. Hospital administrators and clinicians are often aware that communication is a problem, but understanding where to intervene can be difficult to determine. While clinical leadership routinely reviews incident reports and acts on them to improve care, we hypothesized that reviewing incident reports in a systematic way might reveal thematic patterns, providing targeted opportunities to improve communication in direct interaction with patients and within the healthcare team itself. Methods We abstracted incident reports from the Women's Health service and linked them with patient charts to join patient's race/ethnicity, birth outcome, and presence of maternal morbidity and mortality to the incident report. We conducted a qualitative content analysis of incident reports using an inductive and deductive approach to categorizing communication challenges. We then described the intersection of different types of communication challenges with patient race/ethnicity and morbidity outcomes. Results The use of incident reports to conduct research on communication was new for the health system. Conversations with health system-level stakeholders were important to determine the best way to manage data. We developed a thematic codebook based on prior research in healthcare communication. We found that we needed to add codes that were equity focused, as this was missing from the existing codebook. We also found that clinical and contextual expertise was necessary for conducting the analysis-requiring more resources to conduct coding than initially estimated. We shared our findings back with leadership iteratively during the work. Conclusions Incident reports represent a promising source of health system data for rapid improvement to transform organizational practice around communication. There are barriers to conducting this work in a rapid manner, however, that require further iteration and innovation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca R S Clark
- Center for Health Outcomes and Policy Research University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing Philadelphia Pennsylvania USA
- University of Pennsylvania Health System Philadelphia Pennsylvania USA
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics Philadelphia Pennsylvania USA
| | - Tamar Klaiman
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine Philadelphia Pennsylvania USA
| | - Kathy Sliwinski
- Center for Health Outcomes and Policy Research University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing Philadelphia Pennsylvania USA
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics Philadelphia Pennsylvania USA
| | - Rebecca F Hamm
- University of Pennsylvania Health System Philadelphia Pennsylvania USA
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics Philadelphia Pennsylvania USA
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine Philadelphia Pennsylvania USA
| | - Emilia Flores
- Center for Evidence-Based Practice University of Pennsylvania Health System Philadelphia Pennsylvania USA
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McFarlane SJ, Wright KO, Acheampong B, Francis DB, Callands T, Swartzendruber A, Adesina O. Reframing the experience of childbirth: Black doula communication strategies and client responses during delivery hospitalization. Soc Sci Med 2024; 351:116981. [PMID: 38781745 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.116981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Doulas, or birth coaches, are said to be "changing the world, one birth at a time." Black doulas have been suggested to mitigate against lack of representation in obstetric care, limited identity acknowledgement and accommodation, and obstetric racism. However, scientific inquiry into the specific communication strategies and messages used by Black doulas to advocate for clients was non-existent in extant literature. Guided by the Agency-Identity Model, we analyzed 20 diary-interviews of nine Black doulas who recently served Black clients. Specifically, we explored Black doulas' communication strategies and whether these strategies had an impact on client agency. We found that Black doulas prepare their clients for patient-provider interactions, including conversations about certain medical treatments and procedures and the risks for Black women and birthing people, the importance of informed consent, how to be heard, and how to resist neglect or abuse. We found that, in turn, most Black clients were able to enact agentic responses. We describe the specific doula messages, and contextualize our findings, considering how these collective interpersonal communication strategies of Black doulas, and their clients' agentic transformations, may index a sociopolitical movement to reframe the experience of childbirth in America.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soroya Julian McFarlane
- University of Georgia, Department of Communication Studies, 602 Caldwell Hall, GeorgiaAthens, GA, 30606, USA.
| | - Kallia O Wright
- University of Miami, School of Communication, 5100 Brunson Drive, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, USA.
| | - Beauty Acheampong
- University of Georgia, Department of Communication Studies, 602 Caldwell Hall, GeorgiaAthens, GA, 30606, USA.
| | - Diane B Francis
- Northeastern University, College of Arts, Media and Design, Ryder Hall, 11 Leon St #102, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Tamora Callands
- University of Georgia, College of Public Health, 231 Wright Hall, Health Sciences Campus, 100 Foster Road, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
| | - Andrea Swartzendruber
- University of Georgia, College of Public Health, 231 Wright Hall, Health Sciences Campus, 100 Foster Road, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
| | - Oyinade Adesina
- University of Georgia, Department of Communication Studies, 602 Caldwell Hall, GeorgiaAthens, GA, 30606, USA.
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13
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Karvonen KL, Smith O, Chambers Butcher BD, Franck LS, McKenzie-Sampson S, McLemore MR, Pantell MS, Rogers EE. Parent and staff perceptions of racism in a single-center neonatal intensive care unit. Pediatr Res 2024; 95:1690-1693. [PMID: 38167642 PMCID: PMC11245384 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-023-02980-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
IMPACT In alignment with previous literature, NICU parents reported experiencing racism and NICU staff reported witnessing racism in the NICU. Our study also uniquely describes personal experiences with racism by staff in the NICU. NICU staff reported witnessing and experiencing racism more often than parents reported. Black staff reported witnessing and experiencing more racism than white staff. Differences in reporting is likely influenced by variations in lived experience, social identities, psychological safety, and levels of awareness. Future studies are necessary to prevent and accurately measure racism in the NICU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla L Karvonen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Olga Smith
- Independent Researcher, Antioch, CA, USA
| | | | - Linda S Franck
- Department of Family Health Care Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Safyer McKenzie-Sampson
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Monica R McLemore
- Department of Child, Family, and Population Health Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Matthew S Pantell
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Elizabeth E Rogers
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Barcelona V, Condon EM, Jacoby SF. Leveraging biosocial methods to examine and address structural determinants of health and promote health equity. Nurs Outlook 2024; 72:102195. [PMID: 38810533 DOI: 10.1016/j.outlook.2024.102195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Biosocial approaches in nursing research have largely focused on the ways that social determinants of health influence individual-level outcomes, including symptom management, family and social support, and educational interventions. PURPOSE Theoretical, methodological, and practical strategies are needed to expand current biosocial methods for nursing science and focus on upstream, structural determinants of health and the policies that underlie health inequities. METHODS This paper summarizes presentations given at the 2023 Council for the Advancement of Nursing Science Advanced Methods Conference, Biosocial Methods to Advance Health Equity, in a panel titled "Individual, community, systems and policy related to biosocial methods." DISCUSSION Nurses are uniquely positioned to examine upstream, structural determinants of health by leveraging expertise in biosocial methods, collaborating with interdisciplinary researchers and community members, and advocating for policy change. By conducting theory-grounded biosocial research, nurse researchers can significantly advance scientific knowledge and promote health equity for individuals and communities. CONCLUSION Nurse scientists are conducting research using biosocial methods and provide recommendations for expansion of this approach in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eileen M Condon
- University of Connecticut School of Nursing, Storrs, CT; Department of Pediatrics, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Storrs, CT
| | - Sara F Jacoby
- Department of Family and Community, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA
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Merz S, Aksakal T, Hibtay A, Yücesoy H, Fieselmann J, Annaç K, Yılmaz-Aslan Y, Brzoska P, Tezcan-Güntekin H. Racism against healthcare users in inpatient care: a scoping review. Int J Equity Health 2024; 23:89. [PMID: 38698455 PMCID: PMC11067303 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-024-02156-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Racism in the healthcare system has become a burgeoning focus in health policy-making and research. Existing research has shown both interpersonal and structural forms of racism limiting access to quality healthcare for racialised healthcare users. Nevertheless, little is known about the specifics of racism in the inpatient sector, specifically hospitals and rehabilitation facilities. The aim of this scoping review is therefore to map the evidence on racial discrimination experienced by people receiving treatment in inpatient settings (hospitals and rehabilitation facilities) or their caregivers in high-income countries, focusing specifically on whether intersectional axes of discrimination have been taken into account when describing these experiences. METHODS Based on the conceptual framework developed by Arksey and O'Malley, this scoping review surveyed existing research on racism and racial discrimination in inpatient care in high-income countries published between 2013 and 2023. The software Rayyan was used to support the screening process while MAXQDA was used for thematic coding. RESULTS Forty-seven articles were included in this review. Specifics of the inpatient sector included different hospitalisation, admission and referral rates within and across hospitals; the threat of racial discrimination from other healthcare users; and the spatial segregation of healthcare users according to ethnic, religious or racialised criteria. While most articles described some interactions between race and other social categories in the sample composition, the framework of intersectionality was rarely considered explicitly during analysis. DISCUSSION While the USA continue to predominate in discussions, other high-income countries including Canada, Australia and the UK also examine racism in their own healthcare systems. Absent from the literature are studies from a wider range of European countries as well as of racialised and disadvantaged groups other than refugees or recent immigrants. Research in this area would also benefit from an engagement with approaches to intersectionality in public health to produce a more nuanced understanding of the interactions of racism with other axes of discrimination. As inpatient care exhibits a range of specific structures, future research and policy-making ought to consider these specifics to develop targeted interventions, including training for non-clinical staff and robust, transparent and accessible complaint procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sibille Merz
- Faculty of Health and Education, Alice Salomon University of Applied Sciences, Alice-Salomon-Platz 5, 12627, Berlin, Germany
| | - Tuğba Aksakal
- Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Health Services Research Unit. Alfred-Herrhausen-Straße 50, 58448, Witten, Germany
| | - Ariam Hibtay
- Faculty of Health and Education, Alice Salomon University of Applied Sciences, Alice-Salomon-Platz 5, 12627, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hilâl Yücesoy
- Faculty of Health and Education, Alice Salomon University of Applied Sciences, Alice-Salomon-Platz 5, 12627, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jana Fieselmann
- Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Health Services Research Unit. Alfred-Herrhausen-Straße 50, 58448, Witten, Germany
| | - Kübra Annaç
- Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Health Services Research Unit. Alfred-Herrhausen-Straße 50, 58448, Witten, Germany
| | - Yüce Yılmaz-Aslan
- Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Health Services Research Unit. Alfred-Herrhausen-Straße 50, 58448, Witten, Germany
| | - Patrick Brzoska
- Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Health Services Research Unit. Alfred-Herrhausen-Straße 50, 58448, Witten, Germany.
| | - Hürrem Tezcan-Güntekin
- Faculty of Health and Education, Alice Salomon University of Applied Sciences, Alice-Salomon-Platz 5, 12627, Berlin, Germany
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Goh AH, Robinson K, Craddock JB, Breman RB. Birth Care Gaps in the Childbirth Options, Information, and Person-Centered Explanation (CHOICEs) Measure. MCN Am J Matern Child Nurs 2024; 49:165-171. [PMID: 38241005 DOI: 10.1097/nmc.0000000000001004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/30/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The objective of this study was to revise and improve the intrapartum items of the shared decision-making (SDM) measure, CH ildbirth O ptions, I nformation and person- C entered E xplanation (CHOICEs). STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS Methodological sequential triangulation was used to select a purposive sample of 29 people who gave birth in the United States between August 2019 and June 2021. A qualitative descriptive approach was used to analyze and interpret the data. We used an interview guide with questions related to the nine intrapartum items in CHOICEs to address the question: How did decision-making occur during your most recent birth? RESULTS Four major themes were identified: provider told me what to do ; communication about interventions during labor and birth ; preferences overlooked ; multiple team members . Under the theme of provider told me what to do , there was one sub-theme of induction of labor . CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Participants noted lack of shared decision-making, poor communication, and obstetric violence. We found the need for perinatal providers to improve communication with birthing people on topics such as fetal monitoring, induction of labor, and multiple team members who may participate in their care. Revisions of CHOICEs will include seven new items to further address birth preferences, feeling heard, and multiple team members.
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Anyiam S, Woo J, Spencer B. Listening to Black Women's Perspectives of Birth Centers and Midwifery Care: Advocacy, Protection, and Empowerment. J Midwifery Womens Health 2024. [PMID: 38689459 DOI: 10.1111/jmwh.13635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Black women in Texas experience high rates of adverse maternal outcomes that have been linked to health inequities and structural racism in the maternal care system. Birth centers and midwifery care are highlighted in the literature as contributing to improved perinatal care experiences and decreased adverse outcomes for Black women. However, compared with White women, Black women underuse birth centers and midwifery care. Black women's perceptions in Texas of birth center and midwifery care are underrepresented in research. Thus, this study aimed to highlight the views of Black women residing in Texas on birth centers and midwifery care to identify their needs and explore ways to increasing access to perinatal care. METHODS Semistructured interviews were conducted with 10 pregnant and postpartum Black women residing in Texas. Questions focused on the women's access, knowledge, and use of birth centers and midwifery care in the context of their lived maternal care experiences. Interview transcripts were reviewed and analyzed using inductive, qualitative content analysis. RESULTS The Black women interviewed all shared experiences of discrimination and bias while receiving obstetric care that affected their interest in and overall perceptions of birth center and midwifery care. Participants also discussed financial and institutional barriers that impacted their ease of access to birth center and midwifery care services. Additionally, participants highlighted the need for culturally sensitive and respectful perinatal health care. DISCUSSION The Black women interviewed in this study emphasized the prevalence of racism and discrimination in perinatal health care encounters, a reflection consistent with current literature. Black women also expressed a desire to use birth centers and midwifery care but identified the barriers in Texas that impede access. Study findings highlight the need to address barriers to promote equitable perinatal health care access for Black women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shalom Anyiam
- College of Nursing, Texas Woman's University, Dallas, Texas
| | - Jennifer Woo
- College of Nursing, Texas Woman's University, Dallas, Texas
| | - Becky Spencer
- College of Nursing, Texas Woman's University, Dallas, Texas
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Doernberg M, Gilstad-Hayden K, Yonkers KA, Forray A. Provider-patient relationships and trauma among pregnant patients with opioid-use disorder. Am J Addict 2024. [PMID: 38685767 DOI: 10.1111/ajad.13570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES The provider-patient relationship is integral to medical practice and health outcomes, particularly among vulnerable patient populations. This study compared the provider-patient relationship among pregnant patients with opioid-use disorder (OUD), who did or did not have a history of moderate to severe trauma. METHODS This was an exploratory data analysis of 119 patients enrolled in the Support Models for Addiction Related Treatment trial. Probable posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was determined by a score ≥ 31 on the PTSD Checklist for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition. The provider-patient relationship was assessed at 26 ± 4 weeks of pregnancy using the Kim Alliance Scale (KAS). Multivariable regression was used to examine the association of KAS with probable PTSD among pregnant people with OUD. RESULTS The mean KAS score for pregnant participants without probable PTSD (N = 88) was 61.4 (SD ± 2.8) and for pregnant participants with probable PTSD (N = 31) was 59.6 (SD ± 3.7). Results demonstrated significant differences in KAS scores between those with and without probable PTSD after adjusting for demographic variables. Adjusted mean total KAS scores and scores on Empowerment and Communication subscales were significantly lower among those with probable PTSD compared to those without (p = .04 and 0.02, respectively) but did not differ significantly on Collaboration and Integration subscales. CONCLUSIONS AND SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE Analyses show an association between probable PTSD and provider-patient relationship among pregnant patients with OUD, with those with probable PTSD having a worse alliance with obstetric providers. This novel finding helps characterize the provider-patient relationship among a uniquely vulnerable population and can inform efforts to integrate trauma-informed practices into prenatal care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kimberly A Yonkers
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ariadna Forray
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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Basile-Ibrahim B, Combellick J, Mead TL, Sorensen A, Batten J, Schafer R. The Social Context of Pregnancy, Respectful Maternity Care, Biomarkers of Weathering, and Postpartum Mental Health Inequities: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:480. [PMID: 38673391 PMCID: PMC11049830 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21040480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Background: Mental health disorders are the number one cause of maternal mortality and a significant maternal morbidity. This scoping review sought to understand the associations between social context and experiences during pregnancy and birth, biological indicators of stress and weathering, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs). Methods: A scoping review was performed using PRISMA-ScR guidance and JBI scoping review methodology. The search was conducted in OVID Medline and Embase. Results: This review identified 74 eligible English-language peer-reviewed original research articles. A majority of studies reported significant associations between social context, negative and stressful experiences in the prenatal period, and a higher incidence of diagnosis and symptoms of PMADs. Included studies reported significant associations between postpartum depression and prenatal stressors (n = 17), socioeconomic disadvantage (n = 14), negative birth experiences (n = 9), obstetric violence (n = 3), and mistreatment by maternity care providers (n = 3). Birth-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was positively associated with negative birth experiences (n = 11), obstetric violence (n = 1), mistreatment by the maternity care team (n = 1), socioeconomic disadvantage (n = 2), and prenatal stress (n = 1); and inverse association with supportiveness of the maternity care team (n = 5) and presence of a birth companion or doula (n = 4). Postpartum anxiety was significantly associated with negative birth experiences (n = 2) and prenatal stress (n = 3). Findings related to associations between biomarkers of stress and weathering, perinatal exposures, and PMADs (n = 14) had mixed significance. Conclusions: Postpartum mental health outcomes are linked with the prenatal social context and interactions with the maternity care team during pregnancy and birth. Respectful maternity care has the potential to reduce adverse postpartum mental health outcomes, especially for persons affected by systemic oppression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joan Combellick
- School of Nursing, Yale University, Orange, CT 06477, USA; (J.C.)
| | - Thomas L. Mead
- Biomedical Libraries, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755, USA;
| | - Alee Sorensen
- School of Nursing, Yale University, Orange, CT 06477, USA; (J.C.)
| | - Janene Batten
- Harvey Cushing/John Hay Whitney Medical Library, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA;
| | - Robyn Schafer
- Division of Advanced Nursing Practice, School of Nursing, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ 07107, USA;
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
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20
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Spurlock EJ, Pickler RH. Birth Experience Among Black Women in the United States: A Qualitative Meta-Synthesis. J Midwifery Womens Health 2024. [PMID: 38561916 DOI: 10.1111/jmwh.13628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There are striking disparities in perinatal health outcomes for Black women in the United States. Although the causes are multifactorial, research findings have increasingly identified social and structural determinants of health as contributors to perinatal disparities. Maltreatment during perinatal care, which is disproportionately experienced by Black women, may be one such contributor. Qualitative researchers have explored Black women's perinatal care experiences, but childbirth experience data has yet to be analyzed in-depth across studies. The aim of this meta-synthesis was to explore the birthing experience of Black women in the United States. METHODS PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, and CINAHL databases were searched. Inclusion criteria were qualitative research studies that included birth experience data shared by self-identified Black or African American women who had given birth in the United States. Exclusion criteria were reports that did not include rich qualitative data or only included experience data that did not specify the race of the participant (eg, data pooled for women of color). The search began February 2022 and ended June 2022. The Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Qualitative Research was used to appraise the research. Results were synthesized using content analysis. RESULTS Fifteen studies met inclusion criteria. Main themes included (1) trust: being known and seen; (2) how race influences care; (3) preserving autonomy; and (4) birth as trauma. DISCUSSION Fragmented care resulted in reports of poor birth experiences in several studies. Open communication and feeling known by perinatal care providers was influential in improving childbirth experiences among Black women; these themes are consistent with existing research. Further prospective research exploring relationships among these themes and perinatal outcomes is needed. Limitations of this report include the use of content analysis and meta-synthesis which may lose the granularity of the original reports; however, the aggregation of voices may provide valuable, transferable, actionable insight that can inform future supportive care interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth J Spurlock
- Martha S. Pitzer Center for Women, Children and Youth, College of Nursing, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Rita H Pickler
- Martha S. Pitzer Center for Women, Children and Youth, College of Nursing, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
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21
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Berk AL, Pickett A, Kusters IS, Gregory ME. Healthcare Experiences of Black Patients During and After Pregnancy: a Needs Assessment for Provider Training to Improve Quality of Care. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2024; 11:992-1004. [PMID: 37010801 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-023-01579-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Black patients are at a higher risk of experiencing less safe and lower quality care during pregnancy and childbirth, compared to their White counterparts. Behaviors that healthcare professionals engage in that can facilitate or hinder high-quality care for this population are underexplored. We sought to explore Black patients' experiences with healthcare professionals during and after pregnancy, as a needs assessment to inform the development of training for healthcare professionals. METHODS We conducted semi-structured interviews of Black patients who were in their third trimester of pregnancy or within 18 months of giving birth. Questions focused on experiences with healthcare professionals during pregnancy-related healthcare, including quality of care and discrimination. Thematic analysis was conducted using a combined deductive-inductive approach. Findings were considered in the context of the Institute of Medicine's Six Domains of Quality (equitable, patient-centered, timely, safe, effective, efficient). RESULTS We interviewed 8 participants who received care from various clinics and institutions. Over half (62%) described experiencing discrimination or microaggressions during their pregnancy-related healthcare. Participants most commonly reflected upon experiences within the patient-centered care domain, regarding whether care was in alignment with their preferences, positive and negative interpersonal interactions, and varied experiences with patient education/shared decision-making. CONCLUSIONS Black patients commonly report experiencing discrimination from healthcare professionals during pregnancy-related healthcare. Reducing microaggressions and improving patient-centered care is a key focus for healthcare professionals who serve this group. Training needs include addressing implicit bias, educating on common microaggressions, improving communication, and promoting an inclusive workplace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail L Berk
- College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | - Isabelle S Kusters
- Department of Clinical, Health, and Applied Sciences, University of Houston-Clear Lake, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Megan E Gregory
- Department of Health Outcomes & Biomedical Informatics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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22
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Hernandez-Green N, Davis MV, Beshara MS, Hernandez-Spalding K, Francis S, Parker A, Farinu O, Chandler R. Examining the Perceptions of mHealth on Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Postpartum Health for Black Women: A Scoping Review. Health Promot Pract 2024:15248399241234636. [PMID: 38556711 DOI: 10.1177/15248399241234636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Background. Several disparities exist for Black mothers during the postpartum period, including but not limited to increased maternal mortality and morbidity rates, decreased access to care, and limited access to resources. Given the racial discrepancies in attention to postpartum care, coupled with the critical importance of the postpartum period for preventing adverse maternal health outcomes, research is warranted to explore how mobile health (mHealth) applications may help to alleviate maternal health disparities by optimizing postpartum care and addressing barriers to care for postpartum Black women. Thus, this review examines the perceptions of mHealth applications and their utility in health outcomes among postpartum Black women. Methods. We undertook a comprehensive literature search using PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. We included peer-reviewed articles published between 2010 and 2022 that were written in English, utilized mHealth as a primary intervention, and focused on postpartum health and access to resources, primarily among Black women in the United States. Results. A total of eight articles were included in our synthesis, encompassing mobile phone-based interventions for Black women. Cultural tailoring was included in five studies. Interventions that incorporated tailored content and fostered interactions reported high rates of follow-up. Conclusions. Tailored mHealth interventions can effectively promote behavior change and improve health care outcomes for Black women. However, there is a critical need for more research to assess user engagement and retention and whether these improvements indicate long-term sustainability.
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23
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Bush NR. Programming the next generation of prenatal programming of stress research: A review and suggestions for the future of the field. Dev Psychopathol 2024:1-14. [PMID: 38482548 DOI: 10.1017/s0954579424000488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
In this article, I highlight core ideas, empirical findings, and advances in the study of how stress during pregnancy may prenatally program child neurodevelopmental, psychopathological, and health outcomes, emphasizing reviews, metanalyses, and recent contributions of conceptual and empirical work. The article offers a perspective on the history of this area of science, the underrecognized contributions of influential scholars from diverse fields of study, what we know from the evidence to date, the persistent challenges in sorting through what is left to learn, and suggestions for future research. I include sections focused on promoting resilience, pregnancy interventions that demonstrate positive effects across two generations, and the translational implications of the accruing data for practice and policy, highlighting opportunities for integrating across a range of fields and sectors. In the concluding sections, I discuss lessons learned from conducting this work and provide a closing summary of progress and future directions. The goal of this writing was to provide a viewpoint on some ways that emerging intergenerational transmission scholars might responsibly contribute to the future of the field of developmental psychopathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole R Bush
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Health and Community, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Developmental Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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24
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Goh AH, Altman MR, Canty L, Edmonds JK. Communication Between Pregnant People of Color and Prenatal Care Providers in the United States: An Integrative Review. J Midwifery Womens Health 2024; 69:202-223. [PMID: 37961941 DOI: 10.1111/jmwh.13580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Racism and discrimination negatively affect patient-provider communication. Yet, pregnant people of color consistently report being discriminated against, disrespected, and ignored. The purpose of this integrated review was to identify studies that examined communication between pregnant people of color and their prenatal care providers and evaluate the factors and outcomes arising from communication. METHODS We searched the PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and PsychINFO databases for studies published between 2001 and 2023. Articles were eligible for inclusion if they reported on primary research conducted in the United States, were written in English, and focused on patient-provider communication with a sample that included pregnant people of color, defined as those who self-identified as Black, African American, Hispanic, Latina/x/e, Indigenous, American Indian, Asian, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and/or Pacific Islander American. Twenty-six articles were included in the review. Relevant data were extracted and compiled into an evidence table. We then applied the rating scale of the Johns Hopkins Evidence-Based Practice model to assess the level of evidence and quality of the studies. Themes were identified using a memoing technique and organized into 3 a priori categories: factors, outcomes, and recommendations. RESULTS Two overarching themes emerged from our analysis: racism/discrimination and unmet information needs. Subthemes were then identified as factors, outcomes, or recommendations. Factors included provider behaviors, language barriers, structural barriers, provider type, continuity of care, and fear. Outcome themes were disrespect, trust, decision-making power, missed appointments, and satisfaction with care. Lastly, culturally congruent care, provider training, and workforce development were categorized as recommendations. DISCUSSION Inadequate communication between prenatal care providers and pregnant people of color continues to exist. Improving access to midwifery education for people of color can contribute to delivering perinatal care that is culturally and linguistically aligned. Further research about digital prenatal health communication is necessary to ensure equitable prenatal care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy H Goh
- Boston College Connell School of Nursing, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts
| | - Molly R Altman
- School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Lucinda Canty
- College of Nursing, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts
| | - Joyce K Edmonds
- Boston College Connell School of Nursing, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
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Dmowska A, Fielding-Singh P, Halpern J, Prata N. The intersection of traumatic childbirth and obstetric racism: A qualitative study. Birth 2024; 51:209-217. [PMID: 37849421 PMCID: PMC10922554 DOI: 10.1111/birt.12774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Traumatic childbirth experiences are common in the United States - affecting a third to a fourth of mothers - with significant negative impacts on maternal health. Yet most research on traumatic childbirth focuses on white mothers' experiences. Drawing on a racially and ethnically diverse sample of mothers who experienced traumatic childbirth, this exploratory qualitative study examined Black, Latina, and Asian mothers' traumatic birth experiences and the role of obstetric racism in shaping these experiences. METHODS In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted in 2019-2020 with 30 mothers who identified as women of color (37% Black, 40% Latina, and 23% Asian) who gave birth in the US and self-identified as having experienced a traumatic childbirth. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. RESULTS Mothers reported obstetric racism as core to their traumatic birth experiences. This racism manifested through practitioners' use of gendered and racialized stereotypes, denying and delegitimizing mothers' needs. Mothers shared key consequences of the obstetric racism they experienced, including postpartum anxiety and depression, increased medical mistrust, and decreased desire for future children. CONCLUSIONS Mothers' reports suggest that obstetric racism played a role in their traumatic birth experiences. Particularly, practitioners' deployment of gendered and racialized stereotypes influenced mothers' treatment during birth. These findings point to opportunities to address obstetric racism during childbirth and improve patients' experiences through enhancing their agency and empowerment. The findings, in addition, highlight the need for increased practitioner training in anti-racist practice and cultural humility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelia Dmowska
- Medical Student, University of California Berkeley and University of California San Francisco Joint Medical Program
| | | | - Jodi Halpern
- Professor of Bioethics and Medical Humanities, University of California Berkeley and University of California San Francisco Joint Medical Program
| | - Ndola Prata
- Professor of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, University of California Berkeley School of Public Health
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26
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DaCosta MC, Mogaka J, Gebhardt L, Goff SL, Qasba N, Attanasio L. Readiness to Implement a Doula-Hospital Partnership Program. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs 2024; 53:197-206. [PMID: 38145632 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogn.2023.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess obstetric clinicians' and leaders' baseline knowledge, attitudes, and experience with doulas and their readiness to implement a novel doula-hospital partnership program. DESIGN Survey of obstetric clinicians and leaders before implementation of the doula program. SETTING/LOCAL PROBLEM Academic medical center in Western Massachusetts that was preparing to pilot a doula-hospital partnership program with Black doulas for Black women to address racial disparities in maternal morbidity and mortality. PARTICIPANTS Obstetric clinicians and leaders (N = 48). INTERVENTION/MEASUREMENTS We used established questions from the Organizational Readiness for Implementing Change (ORIC) scale and original questions to assess participants' knowledge, attitudes, and experiences with doulas and their readiness to implement the planned doula program. We distributed the questionnaire to 103 potential respondents. We conducted descriptive and bivariate analyses and analyzed open-ended responses using content analysis. RESULTS Forty-eight participants responded to the survey. Of those who provided intrapartum care (n = 45), all were familiar with doula roles. Respondents who reported having experience working with a doula, 47.3% (n = 18/38) had at least one prior negative experience with a doula and 76.3% (n = 29/38) reported positive experiences with doulas. However, there was a mean score of 12.62 on the attitude toward doulas (scale range: 3-15). The mean score on the ORIC change commitment subscale was 20.65 (range: 15-25) and on the ORIC change efficacy subscale, mean score was 29.31 (range: 19-35). Results did not differ by participants characteristics. CONCLUSION Our findings suggested strong support for and readiness to implement the doula-hospital partnership program.
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Nelson TJ, Butcher BDC, Delgado A, McLemore MR. Perspectives of Certified Nurse-Midwives and Physicians on the Structural and Institutional Barriers that Contribute to the Reproductive Inequities of Black Birthing People in the San Francisco Bay Area. J Midwifery Womens Health 2024. [PMID: 38369871 DOI: 10.1111/jmwh.13614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Black birthing people in the United States disproportionately endure inequitable experiences and outcomes during pregnancy and childbirth via structural, interpersonal, and obstetric racism. In this study, the researchers explore provider perspectives of how racism is perpetuated in institutional perinatal and reproductive health care. METHODS Critical Race Theory, Reproductive Justice, and midwifery theory were operationalized through secondary thematic analysis of existing qualitative data from the Community Racial Equity and Training Interventions and Evaluation of Current and Future Healthcare Clinicians Study. Twenty-four perinatal providers (certified nurse-midwives [n = 7] and physicians [n = 17]) voluntarily participated in interviews. A comparative approach was used to determine how professional identity and model of care influence physicians' and certified nurse-midwives' perceptions of equity. RESULTS Thematic analysis produced 5 themes: racism as a comorbidity, health care systems' inability to address the needs of Black birthing people, health care systems prioritizing providers over patients are failed systems, patients are the experts in the optimal health care model, and benefits of interprofessional teams grounded in Reproductive Justice. Additionally, both physicians and midwives expressed a need for a new care model. DISCUSSION With these findings, our team proposes a modification of the midwifery model for application by all provider types that could radically shift the experience and outcomes of perinatal and reproductive health care and reduce mortality. Using a human rights approach to care, a Reproductive Justice-Public Health Critical Race praxis-informed midwifery model may be operationalized by all perinatal and reproductive health care providers. This novel model reflects an iterative process that may offer institutions and providers methods to build on past research supporting midwifery-centered care for improving outcomes for all patients by specifically focusing on improving care of Black birthing people. The implications of this work offer broad application in current clinical practice, quality improvement, research, technology, and patient resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara J Nelson
- Department of Family Health Care Nursing School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Brittany D Chambers Butcher
- Department of Human Ecology, Human Development and Family Studies, University of California Davis, Davis, California
| | - Ana Delgado
- Department of Family Health Care Nursing School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Monica R McLemore
- Department of Family Health Care Nursing School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
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Rhodes EC, Zahid M, Abuwala N, Damio G, LaPlant HW, Crummett C, Surprenant R, Pérez-Escamilla R. Experiences of breastfeeding peer counseling among women with low incomes in the US: a qualitative evaluation. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2024; 24:120. [PMID: 38336607 PMCID: PMC10854050 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-023-06213-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Person-centered breastfeeding counseling is a key but often overlooked aspect of high-quality services. We explored women's experiences of the Breastfeeding Heritage and Pride™ program, an evidence-based breastfeeding peer counseling program serving women with low incomes in the United States. METHODS This study was conducted through an equitable community-clinical-academic partnership and guided by the World Health Organization (WHO) quality of care framework for maternal and newborn health, which highlights three domains of positive experiences of care: effective communication; respect and dignity; and emotional support. In-depth interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of women participating in the Breastfeeding Heritage and Pride™ program. Women were asked to describe their experiences with the program including examples of when good quality counseling was or was not provided. Each interview was conducted in English or Spanish, audio-recorded, and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Once themes were generated, they were organized according to the three care experience domains in the WHO quality of care framework. RESULTS Twenty-eight in-depth interviews were conducted with a racially/ethnically and socio-economically diverse sample of women. Three themes described effective communication practices of peer counselors: tailoring communication to meet women's individual needs; offering comprehensive and honest information about infant feeding; and being timely, proactive, and responsive in all communications across the maternity care continuum. Two themes captured why women felt respected. First, peer counselors were respectful in their interactions with women; they were courteous, patient, and non-judgmental and respected women's infant feeding decisions. Second, peer counselors showed genuine interest in the well-being of women and their families, beyond breastfeeding. The key theme related to emotional support explored ways in which peer counselors offered encouragement to women, namely by affirming women's efforts to breastfeed and by providing reassurance that alleviated their worries about breastfeeding. These positive experiences of counseling were appreciated by women. CONCLUSIONS Women described having and valuing positive experiences in their interactions with peer counselors. Efforts to expand access to high-quality, person-centered breastfeeding counseling should, as part of quality assurance, include women's feedback on their experiences of these services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth C Rhodes
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
- Yale School of Public Health, 135 College Street, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA.
| | - Mahrukh Zahid
- Yale School of Public Health, 135 College Street, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
| | - Nafeesa Abuwala
- Yale School of Public Health, 135 College Street, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
| | - Grace Damio
- Hispanic Health Council, 175 Main Street, Hartford, CT, 06106, USA
| | | | - Carrianne Crummett
- Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center, Trinity Health Of New England, 114 Woodland Street, Hartford, CT, 06105, USA
| | - Rebecca Surprenant
- Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center, Trinity Health Of New England, 114 Woodland Street, Hartford, CT, 06105, USA
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Wilpers A, White M, Austin MT, Bahtiyar MO, Francis K, Emery SP, Wall D, Somers L, Wool C. Development and Validation of a Scale to Measure Person-Centered Care in Fetal Care Centers. Fetal Diagn Ther 2024; 51:243-254. [PMID: 38325342 PMCID: PMC11147688 DOI: 10.1159/000537691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fetal care centers (FCCs) in the USA lack a standardized instrument to measure person-centered care. This study aimed to develop and validate the Person-Centered Care in Fetal Care Centers (PCC-FCC) Scale. METHODS Initial items were developed based on literature and input from clinicians and former patients. A Delphi study involving 16 experts was conducted to validate the content and construct. Through three rounds of online questionnaires using open-ended questions and Likert scales, consensus on item clarity and relevancy was established. The resulting items were then piloted with former fetal care center patients via a web-based survey. The instrument's reliability and validity were validated using Cronbach's α and exploratory factor analysis, respectively. Concurrent validity was assessed by comparing scores with the Revised Patient Perception of Patient-Centeredness (PPPC-R) Questionnaire. RESULTS 258 participants completed the 48-item pilot PCC-FCC survey, categorized into six domains. Factor analysis yielded a 2-factor, 28-item scale. Internal consistency of the final scale had good reliability (α = 0.969). Data supported content, construct, and concurrent validity. CONCLUSION The PCC-FCC Scale is a reliable and valid measure of person-centered care in U.S. FCCs. It can be used to enhance services and begin connecting person-centered care to maternal-child health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Wilpers
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Marney White
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Mary T Austin
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Mert Ozan Bahtiyar
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Fetal Care Center, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Katie Francis
- St. Louis Fetal Care Institute, SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Stephen P Emery
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Diane Wall
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Fetal Care Center, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | | | - Charlotte Wool
- School of Nursing and Health Professionals, York College of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Vance AJ, Farmer ML, D'Agata A, Moore T, Esser M, Fortney CA. NANN Membership Recommendations: Opportunities to Advance Racial Equity Within the Organization. Adv Neonatal Care 2024; 24:71-77. [PMID: 37703135 DOI: 10.1097/anc.0000000000001111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neonatal care has advanced significantly in recent years, yet racial health inequities persist in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), with infants from racial and ethnic minority groups less likely to receive recommended treatment. Healthcare providers acknowledge that there are steps that can be taken to increase knowledge and awareness regarding health inequities. PURPOSE To better understand current health equity-related initiatives in the neonatal community and solicit feedback from National Association of Neonatal Nurses (NANN) membership about advancing racial equity within the organization. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted in January 2021. The anonymous, onetime survey was distributed to active NANN members via SurveyMonkey and included questions related to racial equity initiatives, recommendations, and demographics. Data analysis was conducted using an exploratory approach using descriptive statistics, and thematic analysis was used to summarize responses to open-ended questions. RESULTS There were 325 members who completed the full survey, of whom were White (83%), female (96%), staff nurses (42%), and those with more than 16 years of experience (69%), and most (69%) were familiar with NANN's racial equity position statement. Recommendations were summarized into the following themes: (1) research, (2) education, (3) workforce diversity, (4) communication, (5) scholarships, (6) resources, and (7) community outreach. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE AND RESEARCH NANN members offered clear and actionable recommendations to advance health equity within the neonatal community and organization, which included offering more diversity, inclusion, and equity education at the annual conferences, in ANC articles, and newsletters, and the creation of scholarships or reduced membership fees to encourage diverse enrollment in the organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashlee J Vance
- Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan (Dr Vance); Marietta Neonatology, Marietta, Georgia (Dr Farmer); The Univeristy of Rhode Island College of Nursing, Kingston, Rhode Island (Dr D'Agata); Univeristy of Nebraska Medical Center College of Nursing, Omaha, Nebraska (Dr Moore); Alverno College School of Nursing and Health Professions, Milwaukee, Wisconsin (Dr Esser); and The Ohio State University College of Nursing, Columbus, Ohio (Dr Fortney)
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Gray M, Baird A, Sawyer T, James J, DeBroux T, Bartlett M, Krick J, Umoren R. Increasing Realism and Variety of Virtual Patient Dialogues for Prenatal Counseling Education Through a Novel Application of ChatGPT: Exploratory Observational Study. JMIR MEDICAL EDUCATION 2024; 10:e50705. [PMID: 38300696 PMCID: PMC10870212 DOI: 10.2196/50705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Using virtual patients, facilitated by natural language processing, provides a valuable educational experience for learners. Generating a large, varied sample of realistic and appropriate responses for virtual patients is challenging. Artificial intelligence (AI) programs can be a viable source for these responses, but their utility for this purpose has not been explored. OBJECTIVE In this study, we explored the effectiveness of generative AI (ChatGPT) in developing realistic virtual standardized patient dialogues to teach prenatal counseling skills. METHODS ChatGPT was prompted to generate a list of common areas of concern and questions that families expecting preterm delivery at 24 weeks gestation might ask during prenatal counseling. ChatGPT was then prompted to generate 2 role-plays with dialogues between a parent expecting a potential preterm delivery at 24 weeks and their counseling physician using each of the example questions. The prompt was repeated for 2 unique role-plays: one parent was characterized as anxious and the other as having low trust in the medical system. Role-play scripts were exported verbatim and independently reviewed by 2 neonatologists with experience in prenatal counseling, using a scale of 1-5 on realism, appropriateness, and utility for virtual standardized patient responses. RESULTS ChatGPT generated 7 areas of concern, with 35 example questions used to generate role-plays. The 35 role-play transcripts generated 176 unique parent responses (median 5, IQR 4-6, per role-play) with 268 unique sentences. Expert review identified 117 (65%) of the 176 responses as indicating an emotion, either directly or indirectly. Approximately half (98/176, 56%) of the responses had 2 or more sentences, and half (88/176, 50%) included at least 1 question. More than half (104/176, 58%) of the responses from role-played parent characters described a feeling, such as being scared, worried, or concerned. The role-plays of parents with low trust in the medical system generated many unique sentences (n=50). Most of the sentences in the responses were found to be reasonably realistic (214/268, 80%), appropriate for variable prenatal counseling conversation paths (233/268, 87%), and usable without more than a minimal modification in a virtual patient program (169/268, 63%). CONCLUSIONS Generative AI programs, such as ChatGPT, may provide a viable source of training materials to expand virtual patient programs, with careful attention to the concerns and questions of patients and families. Given the potential for unrealistic or inappropriate statements and questions, an expert should review AI chat outputs before deploying them in an educational program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Gray
- Division of Neonatology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Austin Baird
- Division of Healthcare Simulation Sciences, Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Taylor Sawyer
- Division of Neonatology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Jasmine James
- Department of Family Medicine, Providence St Peter, Olympia, WA, United States
| | - Thea DeBroux
- Division of Neonatology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Michelle Bartlett
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Jeanne Krick
- Department of Pediatrics, San Antonio Uniformed Services Health Education Consortium, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Rachel Umoren
- Division of Neonatology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
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Sump C, Sauley B, Patel S, Riddle S, Connolly E, Hite C, Maiorella R, Thomson JE, Beck AF. Disparities in the Diagnosis and Management of Infants Hospitalized With Inadequate Weight Gain. Hosp Pediatr 2024; 14:21-29. [PMID: 38087957 DOI: 10.1542/hpeds.2023-007188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the association between race and the named etiology for inadequate weight gain among hospitalized infants and assess the differences in management. METHODS This single-center retrospective cohort study of infants hospitalized for the workup and management of inadequate weight gain used infant race and neighborhood-level socioeconomic deprivation as exposures. The etiology of inadequate weight gain was categorized as nonorganic, subjective organic (ie, gastroesophageal reflux and cow's milk protein intolerance), or objective organic (eg, hypothyroidism). The management of inadequate weight gain was examined in secondary outcomes. RESULTS Among 380 infants, most were white and had a nonorganic etiology of inadequate weight gain. Black infants had 2.3 times higher unadjusted odds (95% credible interval [CI] 1.17-4.76) of a nonorganic etiology of inadequate weight gain compared with white infants. After adjustment, there was no association between race and etiology (adjusted odds ratio 0.8, 95% CI [0.44-2.08]); however, each 0.1 increase in neighborhood-level deprivation was associated with 80% increased adjusted odds of a nonorganic etiology of inadequate weight gain (95% CI [1.37-2.4]). Infants with a nonorganic etiology of inadequate weight gain were more likely to have social work and child protective service involvement and less likely to have nasogastric tube placement, gastroenterology consults, and speech therapy consults. CONCLUSIONS Infants from neighborhoods with greater socioeconomic deprivation were more likely to have nonorganic causes of inadequate weight gain, disproportionately affecting infants of Black race. A nonorganic etiology was associated with a higher likelihood of social interventions and a lower likelihood of medical interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney Sump
- Cincinnati Children's Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Beau Sauley
- Murray State University, Department of Economics, Murray, Kentucky
| | - Shivani Patel
- Cincinnati Children's Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Sarah Riddle
- Cincinnati Children's Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Emilia Connolly
- Cincinnati Children's Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Partners In Health, Malawi, Abwenzi Pa Za Umoyo/Partners In Health, Neno, MW
| | - Corinne Hite
- Cincinnati Children's Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - RosaMarie Maiorella
- Cincinnati Children's Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Joanna E Thomson
- Cincinnati Children's Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Andrew F Beck
- Cincinnati Children's Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
- James M. Anderson Center for Health Systems Excellence, Cincinnati Children's Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- General and Community Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
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McGaughey P, Howland RE, Dragan KL. Variation in Preterm Birth Rates Across Prenatal Care Sites in New York. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs 2024; 53:46-56. [PMID: 37951580 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogn.2023.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate variation in preterm birth rates by the site at which prenatal care was received. DESIGN Cross-sectional cohort study. SETTING New York State. PARTICIPANTS Claims and encounter data on singleton live births that were covered by New York Medicaid (N = 154,377). METHODS We analyzed data from New York Medicaid and the American Community Survey. We established sites of prenatal care using geocoded billing addresses for prenatal visits. We calculated descriptive statistics and conducted logistic regression analyses to determine variation in crude and risk-adjusted preterm birth rates by prenatal care site. RESULTS The crude preterm birth rates averaged 7.8% (range = 2.0%-18.7%) by prenatal care site. The adjusted preterm birth rate was 8.0% (range = 2.8%-18.5%) by prenatal care site. Risk-adjusted preterm birth site-level rates at the 90th percentile were 2.7 times higher than those in the 10th percentile. The variation in risk-adjusted preterm birth site-level rates was not fully explained by birth volume, rural site location, or racial and ethnic composition of the patients who received prenatal care at the site. CONCLUSION Wide variation in risk-adjusted preterm birth rates across prenatal care sites exists, and factors beyond known individual demographics and medical factors contribute to the variation. Further research is warranted to identify why receiving care at some prenatal sites is associated with higher risk of preterm birth than receiving care at others.
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Curtis DS, Waitzman N, Kramer MR, Shakib JH. Structural barriers to health care as risk factors for preterm and small-for-gestational-age birth among US-born Black and White mothers. Health Place 2024; 85:103177. [PMID: 38241851 PMCID: PMC10922656 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2024.103177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
We develop county-level measures of structural and institutional barriers to care, and test associations between these barriers and birth outcomes for US-born Black and White mothers using national birth records for 2014-2017. Results indicate elevated odds of greater preterm birth severity for Black mothers in counties with higher uninsurance rates among Black adults, fewer Black physicians per Black residents, and fewer publicly-funded contraceptive services. Most structural barriers were not associated with small-for-gestational-age birth, and barriers defined for Black residents were not associated with birth outcomes for White mothers, with the exception of Black uninsurance rate. Structural determinants of care may influence preterm birth risk for Black Americans.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Curtis
- Department of Family and Consumer Studies, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA.
| | - Norman Waitzman
- Department of Economics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Michael R Kramer
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Julie H Shakib
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
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Junk-Wilson JS, King EK, Murphy LM, Raza H. Skin-To-Skin Contact During Cesarean Birth in the United States over the Last Decade. MCN Am J Matern Child Nurs 2024; 49:8-14. [PMID: 37773073 DOI: 10.1097/nmc.0000000000000960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess skin-to-skin contact during cesarean birth, including incidence and maternal characteristics. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS A cross-sectional, retrospective study using survey methods was conducted. Women who had a cesarean birth within the last 10 years prior to January 2022 were recruited via social media. Descriptive statistics, chi square, and binary logistic regression analyses were calculated. RESULTS There were 2,327 participants, of which 29.7% experienced skin-to-skin contact during their cesarean birth. This was reported to be less often than desired. Significant associations were found among skin-to-skin contact during cesarean birth and planned cesarean birth, previous cesarean birth, maternal age, level of education, and birth region. Previous vaginal birth and race were not significantly associated with skin-to-skin contact during cesarean birth. Most (93.65%) respondents identified as White. Barriers to skin-to-skin contact during cesarean birth may be birth region, unplanned or emergency cesarean births, younger age, lacking a college degree, and lack of previous cesarean births. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS There are differences in incidence and access to skin-to-skin contact during cesarean birth. Our findings emphasize the continued need to address disparities in care, increase maternal health care equity, and make skin-to-skin contact during cesarean birth available for all women who desire it.
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Herriott AL, Etling S, Hans SL. Community-Based Doulas' Roles Within the Birth Support System: Young Black Mothers' Perspectives. J Midwifery Womens Health 2024; 69:33-40. [PMID: 37766383 DOI: 10.1111/jmwh.13570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Doulas have been found to be beneficial to pregnant adolescents during childbirth, but little is known about their role within the larger system of people providing birth support, including family and health care providers. The purpose of this study was to examine, from the perspectives of young mothers, the role of the doula within their broader birth support system. METHODS One hundred pregnant Black adolescents and young women (aged 13 to 21) who were provided perinatal community-based and racially concordant doula services at no cost to them were interviewed after the birth of their newborn, prior to hospital discharge. Interviews generated birth story narratives and responses to focused questions about their experiences of birth support. Thematic analysis was conducted to examine the role of the doula within the context of the broader system of birth support. RESULTS Doulas functioned in 2 primary ways within the birth support system by (1) providing tandem support alongside family and health care providers and (2) filling gaps in health care not provided by family and providers. Laboring adolescents sometimes described their family members and doulas working in tandem to provide multiple types of support such as comfort measures, coaching, and help with pushing. They also identified gaps in their care or support filled by the doula, in particular gaps due to family members' physical or emotional unavailability or health care providers' many responsibilities. DISCUSSION The findings highlight the ways in which doulas support pregnant adolescents during childbirth through their deft navigation of the existing support system. Well-being was enhanced by the inclusion of the doula in the birth support system. The findings align with existing research that underscores the valuable role doulas play in supporting individuals during childbirth, particularly for those most affected by processes of marginalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna L Herriott
- Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Sophia Etling
- Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Sydney L Hans
- Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
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Hernandez-Green N, Davis MV, Farinu O, Hernandez-Spalding K, Lewis K, Beshara MS, Francis S, Baker LJ, Byrd S, Parker A, Chandler R. Using mHealth to reduce disparities in Black maternal health: Perspectives from Black rural postpartum mothers. WOMEN'S HEALTH (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2024; 20:17455057241239769. [PMID: 38773870 PMCID: PMC11113071 DOI: 10.1177/17455057241239769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Racial disparities are evident in maternal morbidity and mortality rates globally. Black women are more likely to die from pregnancy and childbirth than any other race or ethnicity. This leaves one of the largest gaps in women's health to date. OBJECTIVES mHealth interventions that connect with women soon after discharge may assist in individualizing and formalizing support for mothers in the early postpartum period. To aid in developing an mHealth application, Black postpartum mothers' perspectives were examined. DESIGN Utilizing the Sojourner Syndrome Framework and Maternal Mortality & Morbidity Measurement Framework, group interview discussion guides were developed to examine the facilitators and barriers of postpartum transitional care for rural Black women living in the United States to inform the development of a mobile health application. METHODS In this study, seven group interviews were held with Black mothers, their support persons, and healthcare providers in rural Georgia to aid in the development of the Prevent Maternal Mortality Using Mobile Technology (PM3) mobile health (mHealth) application. Group interviews included questions about (1) post-birth experiences; (2) specific needs (e.g. clinical, social support, social services, etc.) in the postpartum period; (3) perspectives on current hospital discharge processes and information; (4) lived experiences with racism, classism, and/or gender discrimination; and (5) desired features and characteristics for the mobile app development. RESULTS Fourteen out of the 78 screened participants were eligible and completed the group interview. Major discussion themes included: accessibility to healthcare and resources due to rurality, issues surrounding race and perceived racism, mental and emotional well-being in the postpartum period, and perspectives on the PM3 mobile application. CONCLUSION Participants emphasized the challenges that postpartum Black women face in relation to accessibility, racism and discrimination, and mental health. The women favored a culturally relevant mHealth tool and highlighted the need to tailor the application to address disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Oluyemi Farinu
- Health Equity Researcher and Sociologist, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Kennedy Lewis
- Emory University and Georgia Health Policy Center, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | | | - LeThenia Joy Baker
- Wellstar Medical Group, Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center, LaGrange, GA, USA
| | | | - Andrea Parker
- School of Interactive Computing, Wellness Technology Lab, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Rasheeta Chandler
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Brown J, Chang X, Matson A, Lainwala S, Chen MH, Cong X, Casavant SG. Health disparities in preterm births. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1275776. [PMID: 38162611 PMCID: PMC10757361 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1275776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Black African American (B/AA) women have a 2-fold to 3-fold elevated risk compared with non-Hispanic White (W) women for preterm birth. Further, preterm birth is the leading cause of mortality among B/AA infants, and among survivors, preterm infant adverse health outcomes occur disproportionately in B/AA infants. Racial inequities in maternal and infant health continue to pose a public health crisis despite the discovery >100 years ago. The purpose of this study was to expand on reported preterm infant outcome disparities. A life-course approach, accumulation of lifelong stress, including discrimination, may explain social factors causing preterm birth rate and outcome inequities in B/AA mothers. Methods Anthropometric measures and clinical treatment information for 197 consented participants were milled from electronic health records across 4 years. The Neonatal Infant Stressor Scale was used to tally acute and chronic painful/stressful procedures. Neurobehavioral differences were investigated using the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Network Neurobehavioral Scale. Results B/AA mothers gave birth to preterm infants earlier than W mothers. NICU hospitalization stays were extended more than 2 weeks for the significantly smaller B/AA preterm infants in comparison to the age-matched W preterm infants. A higher number of chronic lifesaving procedures with demonstrated altered stress response patterns were recorded for B/AA preterm infants. Discussion This cross-sectional analysis of preterm birth rates and preterm infant developmental and neurodevelopmental outcomes are presented in the context of NICU stress and pain, with attendant implications for infant mortality and future health disparities. Preterm birth rate and outcome inequities further support the need to develop interventions and policies that will reduce the impact of discrimination and improve social determinants of health for Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judy Brown
- Institute for Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
- School of Nursing, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| | - Xiaolin Chang
- Department of Statistics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| | - Adam Matson
- Division of Neonatology, Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, Hartford, CT, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT, United States
| | - Shabnam Lainwala
- Division of Neonatology, Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, Hartford, CT, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT, United States
| | - Ming-Hui Chen
- Department of Statistics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| | - Xiaomei Cong
- Institute for Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
- Yale University School of Nursing, Orange, CT, United States
| | - Sharon G. Casavant
- Institute for Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
- School of Nursing, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT, United States
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Weaver EB, Gad L, Zota AR. Climate change as a threat multiplier to environmental reproductive justice. Semin Perinatol 2023; 47:151843. [PMID: 37839904 PMCID: PMC10841484 DOI: 10.1016/j.semperi.2023.151843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Legacies of racial capitalism and colonialism drive present day racial disparities in perinatal health outcomes. Climate change amplifies existing social inequalities associated with environmental exposures and reproductive health, of which BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color) communities bear a disproportionate burden. Through case studies, this article summarizes three examples of climate justice issues with reproductive healthcare outcomes: traffic related air pollution exposure, chemical exposures in personal care products and plastics, and natural disaster frequency. We advocate for incorporation of climate justice and environmental health impact into medical school curriculum, increased prenatal screening for environmental toxins, and physician engagement with local environmental issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily B Weaver
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences Mailman School of Public Health Columbia University New York NY 10032 United States
| | - Laila Gad
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences Mailman School of Public Health Columbia University New York NY 10032 United States
| | - Ami R Zota
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences Mailman School of Public Health Columbia University New York NY 10032 United States.
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40
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Mohottige D, Boulware LE. Uncovering the Role of Kidney Disease and Its Care in the US Maternal Health Equity Crisis. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2346239. [PMID: 38064221 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.46239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Dinushika Mohottige
- Institute for Health Equity Research, Department of Population Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
- Barbara T. Murphy Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
- Division of Data-Driven and Digital Medicine, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - L Ebony Boulware
- Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, North Carolina
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Ibrahim BB, Cheyney M, Vedam S, Kennedy HP. "I was able to take it back": Seeking VBAC after experiencing dehumanizing maternity care in a primary cesarean. SSM. QUALITATIVE RESEARCH IN HEALTH 2023; 4:100339. [PMID: 38239391 PMCID: PMC10795544 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmqr.2023.100339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
In this article, we present findings from a qualitative narrative analysis that examined the pregnancy, primary cesarean, and subsequent birth experiences of women in the United States. Using a maximal variation sampling strategy, we recruited participants via social media and networking to participate in semistructured interviews. Twenty-five women from diverse backgrounds and geographic locations across the U.S. participated, eight self-identified as racialized and seventeen as non-Hispanic, White. Data were analyzed iteratively using Clandinin and Connelly's approach to Narrative Inquiry. Across their narratives, participants described their experiences of maternity care that were either generally negative (dehumanizing care) or positive (humanized care). They further described how their experiences of dehumanizing or humanized care impacted their decision-making for subsequent births, mental health, relationships with the healthcare system, early parenting birth satisfaction, and family planning. Findings suggest that regardless of ultimate mode of birth, what was most important to women was how they are treated by their maternity care team. We suggest practice changes that may improve the experience of maternity care for primary cesarean and subsequent births, especially among those made marginal by systems of oppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget Basile Ibrahim
- Yale University School of Nursing, 400 West Campus Drive, Orange, CT, 06477, United States
| | - Melissa Cheyney
- Oregon State University, Waldo Hall 224, 2250 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR, 97331, United States
| | - Saraswathi Vedam
- University of British Columbia, Birth Place Lab, UBC Midwifery, BC Women’s Hospital, Shaughnessy Building E416 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC, V6H 3N1, Canada
| | - Holly Powell Kennedy
- Yale University School of Nursing, 400 West Campus Drive, Orange, CT, 06477, United States
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Rubashkin N. Epistemic Silences and Experiential Knowledge in Decisions After a First Cesarean: The case of a vaginal birth after cesarean calculator. Med Anthropol Q 2023; 37:341-353. [PMID: 37459454 PMCID: PMC10993819 DOI: 10.1111/maq.12784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Evidence-based obstetrics can employ statistical models to justify greater use of cesareans, sometimes excluding experiential elements from informed decision making. Over the past decade, prenatal providers adopted a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) calculator designed to support patients in making informed decisions about their births by estimating their probability for a VBAC. Among other factors, the calculator used race and ethnicity to make its estimate, assigning lower probabilities for a successful VBAC to Black and Hispanic patients. I analyze how a diverse group of women and their providers engaged with the VBAC calculator. Some providers used low calculator scores to remove a shared decision-making model by prescriptively counseling Black and Hispanic women who desired a VBAC into undergoing repeat cesareans. Consequently, women racialized by the calculator as Black or Hispanic used experiential knowledge to challenge the calculator's assessment of their supposed lesser ability to give birth vaginally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Rubashkin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, & Reproductive Sciences, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, United States
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, United States
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43
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Cerdeña JP. The prenatal care color line and Latina migrant motherhood. Med Anthropol Q 2023; 37:325-340. [PMID: 37354543 DOI: 10.1111/maq.12782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Drawing from ethnographic research with Latin American migrant mothers seeking prenatal care at a safety net clinic in southern Connecticut, I describe the racial dynamics of a medical hierarchy that situates White providers and nurses above Black and Brown medical assistants and patients, terming this the prenatal care color line. I characterize three segments of the prenatal care color line: through (1) onerous enrollment in prenatal care support that strips rights from migrant mothers; (2) differences in racialized embodiment that harden essentialist and stereotyped notions surrounding Latinx reproduction, making the experience of pregnancy and birth a process of race-making; and (3) obstetric racism manifest through both denying or delaying critical medical care to Latinx pregnant patients while also overmedicalizing their uncomplicated births. I argue that the presence of the prenatal care color line-in my study clinic as in other safety net clinics-permits the harsher racialization of Latinx birthers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica P Cerdeña
- Institute for Collaboration on Health, Intervention, and Policy (InCHIP), University of Connecticut
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Xu KY, Schiff DM, Jones HE, Martin CE, Kelly JC, Bierut LJ, Carter EB, Grucza RA. Racial and Ethnic Inequities in Buprenorphine and Methadone Utilization Among Reproductive-Age Women with Opioid Use Disorder: an Analysis of Multi-state Medicaid Claims in the USA. J Gen Intern Med 2023; 38:3499-3508. [PMID: 37436568 PMCID: PMC10713957 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-023-08306-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Associations between race/ethnicity and medications to treat OUD (MOUD), buprenorphine and methadone, in reproductive-age women have not been thoroughly studied in multi-state samples. OBJECTIVE To evaluate racial/ethnic variation in buprenorphine and methadone receipt and retention in a multi-state U.S. sample of Medicaid-enrolled, reproductive-age women with opioid use disorder (OUD) at the beginning of OUD treatment. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SUBJECTS Reproductive-age (18-45 years) women with OUD, in the Merative™ MarketScan® Multi-State Medicaid Database (2011-2016). MAIN MEASURES Differences by race/ethnicity (non-Hispanic White, non-Hispanic Black, Hispanic, "other" race/ethnicity) in the likelihood of receiving buprenorphine and methadone during the start of OUD treatment (yes/no) were estimated using multivariable logistic regression. Differences in time to medication discontinuation (days) by race/ethnicity were evaluated using multivariable Cox regression. RESULTS Of 66,550 reproductive-age Medicaid enrollees with OUD (84.1% non-Hispanic White, 5.9% non-Hispanic Black, 1.0% Hispanic, 5.3% "other"), 15,313 (23.0%) received buprenorphine and 6290 (9.5%) methadone. Non-Hispanic Black enrollees were less likely to receive buprenorphine (adjusted odds ratio, aOR = 0.76 [0.68-0.84]) and more likely to be referred to methadone clinics (aOR = 1.78 [1.60-2.00]) compared to non-Hispanic White participants. Across both buprenorphine and methadone in unadjusted analyses, the median discontinuation time for non-Hispanic Black enrollees was 123 days compared to 132 days and 141 days for non-Hispanic White and Hispanic enrollees respectively (χ2 = 10.6; P = .01). In adjusted analyses, non-Hispanic Black enrollees experienced greater discontinuation for buprenorphine and methadone (adjusted hazard ratio, aHR = 1.16 [1.08-1.24] and aHR = 1.16 [1.07-1.30] respectively) compared to non-Hispanic White peers. We did not observe differences in buprenorphine or methadone receipt or retention for Hispanic enrollees compared to the non-Hispanic White enrollees. CONCLUSIONS Our data illustrate inequities between non-Hispanic Black and non-Hispanic White Medicaid enrollees with regard to buprenorphine and methadone utilization in the USA, consistent with literature on the racialized origins of methadone and buprenorphine treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Y Xu
- Health and Behavior Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Davida M Schiff
- Division of General Academic Pediatrics, Mass General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hendrée E Jones
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Caitlin E Martin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and VCU Institute for Drug and Alcohol Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Jeannie C Kelly
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and the Division of Clinical Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Laura J Bierut
- Health and Behavior Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Alvin J Siteman Cancer Center, Barnes Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ebony B Carter
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and the Division of Clinical Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Richard A Grucza
- Departments of Family and Community Medicine and Health and Outcomes Research, St. Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Afulani PA, Coleman-Phox K, Leon-Martinez D, Fung KZ, Martinez E, Garza MA, McCulloch CE, Kuppermann M. Psychometric assessment of the US person-centered prenatal and maternity care scales in a low-income predominantly Latinx population in California. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:616. [PMID: 37978490 PMCID: PMC10656820 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02721-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess psychometric properties of two scales developed to measure the quality of person-centered care during pregnancy and childbirth in the United States-the Person-Centered Prenatal Care (PCPC-US) and Person-Centered Maternity Care (PCMC-US) scales-in a low-income predominantly Latinx population in California. METHODS Data were collected from July 2020 to June 2023 from surveys of low-income pregnant and birthing people in Fresno, California, participating in the "Engaging Mothers and Babies; Reimagining Antenatal Care for Everyone" (EMBRACE) trial. Research staff administered the 26-item PCPC-US scale at 30-34 weeks' gestation (n = 315) and the 35-item PCMC-US scale at 10-14 weeks after birth (n = 286), using the language preferred by the participant (English or Spanish). We assessed construct, criterion, and known group validity and internal consistency of the scales. RESULTS 78% of respondents identified as Latinx. Factor analysis identified one dominant factor for each scale that accounted for over 60% of the cumulative variance, with most items loading at > 0.3. The items also loaded adequately on sub-scales for "dignity and respect," "communication and autonomy," and "responsive and supportive care." Cronbach's alpha for the full scales were > 0.9 and between 0.70 and 0.87 for the sub-scales. Summative scores range from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating higher person-centered care. Correlations with scores on scales measuring prenatal care quality and birth experience provided evidence for criterion validity, while associations with known predictors provided evidence for known-group validity. CONCLUSIONS The PCPC-US and PCMC-US scales, which were developed using a community-engaged process and found to have good psychometric properties in a largely high-income sample of Black women, were shown to also have good psychometric properties in a sample of low-income primarily Latinx women. Both scales provide valid and reliable tools to measure person-centered care experiences among minoritized communities to support efforts to reduce existing birth inequities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patience A Afulani
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, USA.
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, USA.
| | - Kimberly Coleman-Phox
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Daisy Leon-Martinez
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Kathy Z Fung
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Erica Martinez
- Central Valley Health Policy Institute, College of Health and Human Services, California State University, Fresno, USA
| | - Mary A Garza
- Central Valley Health Policy Institute, College of Health and Human Services, California State University, Fresno, USA
- Department of Public Health, College of Health and Human Services, California State University, Fresno, USA
| | - Charles E McCulloch
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Miriam Kuppermann
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, USA
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Salahshurian E, Moore TA. Integrative Review of Black Birthing People's Interactions With Clinicians During the Perinatal Period. West J Nurs Res 2023; 45:1063-1071. [PMID: 37772363 DOI: 10.1177/01939459231202493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Maternal morbidity and mortality disproportionately affect Black birthing people. Multiple factors contribute to these disparities, including variations in quality health care, structural racism, and implicit bias. Interactions between Black patients and perinatal clinicians could further affect perinatal care use and subsequent perinatal outcomes. This integrative review aims to synthesize quantitative and qualitative literature published in peer-reviewed journals in English within the past 10 years that address patient-clinician interactions during the perinatal period for Black birthing people in the United States. A systematic search of CINAHL, PubMed, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, and Embase recovered 24 articles that met the eligibility criteria for inclusion in this review. The following themes emerged from synthesizing Black patients' interactions with perinatal clinicians: Care Quality, Communication, Power Dynamic, and Established Relationships. Mutual respect, effective communication, and shared decision-making may be key modifiable factors to address through clinician education to improve perinatal care for many Black persons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Salahshurian
- College of Nursing, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Tiffany A Moore
- College of Nursing, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
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Gordon M, Casey JA, McBrien H, Gemmill A, Hernández D, Catalano R, Chakrabarti S, Bruckner T. Disparities in preterm birth following the July 1995 Chicago heat wave. Ann Epidemiol 2023; 87:S1047-2797(23)00166-7. [PMID: 37678645 PMCID: PMC10842513 DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2023.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate if changes in preterm birth (PTB, <37 weeks of gestation) incidence differed between non-Hispanic (NH) Black and NH white births following the July 1995 Chicago heat wave-among the most severe U.S. heat waves since 1950. METHODS We used an ecologic study design. We obtained birth data from January 1990-December 1996 from the National Vital Statistics File to calculate the mean monthly PTB incidence in Chicago's Cook County, Illinois. Births between July 1995 and February 1996 were potentially exposed to the heat wave in utero. We generated time series models for NH Black and NH white births, which incorporated synthetic controls of Cook County based on unexposed counties. We ran a secondary analysis considering socioeconomic status (SES). RESULTS From 1990-1996, the mean monthly PTB incidence among NH Black births was 18.6% compared to 7.8% among NH white births. The mean monthly PTB incidence among NH Black births from August 1995-January 1996 was 16.7% higher than expected (three additional PTBs per 100 live births per month [95% confidence interval (CI): 1, 5]). A similar increase occurred among low-SES NH Black births. No increase appeared among NH white births. CONCLUSIONS Severe heat waves may increase racial disparities in PTB incidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milo Gordon
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY
| | - Joan A Casey
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY; Department of Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Heather McBrien
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY
| | - Alison Gemmill
- Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Diana Hernández
- Sociomedical Sciences Department, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY
| | - Ralph Catalano
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley
| | | | - Tim Bruckner
- Program in Public Health, University of California, Irvine.
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Smith JC, Heberlein EC, Domingue A, LaBoy A, Britt J, Crockett AH. Randomized Controlled Trial on the Effect of Group Versus Individual Prenatal Care on Psychosocial Outcomes. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs 2023; 52:467-480. [PMID: 37604352 PMCID: PMC10840617 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogn.2023.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the effect of group prenatal care (GPNC) compared with individual prenatal care (IPNC) on psychosocial outcomes in late pregnancy, including potential differences in outcomes by subgroups. DESIGN Randomized controlled trial. SETTING An academic medical center in the southeastern United States. PARTICIPANTS A total of 2,348 women with low-risk pregnancies who entered prenatal care before 20 6/7 weeks gestation were randomized to GPNC (n = 1,175) or IPNC (n = 1,173) and stratified by self-reported race and ethnicity. METHODS We surveyed participants during enrollment (M = 12.21 weeks gestation) and in late pregnancy (M = 32.51 weeks gestation). We used standard measures related to stress, anxiety, coping strategies, empowerment, depression symptoms, and stress management practices in an intent-to-treat regression analysis. To account for nonadherence to GPNC treatment, we used an instrumental variable approach. RESULTS The response rates were high, with 78.69% of participants in the GPNC group and 83.89% of participants in the IPNC group completing the surveys. We found similar patterns for both groups, including decrease in distress and increase in anxiety between surveys and comparable levels of pregnancy empowerment and stress management at the second survey. We identified greater use of coping strategies for participants in the GPNC group, particularly those who identified as Black or had low levels of partner support. CONCLUSION Group prenatal care did not affect stress and anxiety in late pregnancy; however, the increased use of coping strategies may suggest a benefit of GPNC for some participants.
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Barcelona V, Horton RL, Rivlin K, Harkins S, Green C, Robinson K, Aubey JJ, Holman A, Goffman D, Haley S, Topaz M. The Power of Language in Hospital Care for Pregnant and Birthing People: A Vision for Change. Obstet Gynecol 2023; 142:795-803. [PMID: 37678895 PMCID: PMC10510792 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000005333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Language is commonly defined as the principal method of human communication made up of words and conveyed by writing, speech, or nonverbal expression. In the context of clinical care, language has power and meaning and reflects priorities, beliefs, values, and culture. Stigmatizing language can communicate unintended meanings that perpetuate socially constructed power dynamics and result in bias. This bias may harm pregnant and birthing people by centering positions of power and privilege and by reflecting cultural priorities in the United States, including judgments of demographic and reproductive health characteristics. This commentary builds on relationship-centered care and reproductive justice frameworks to analyze the role and use of language in pregnancy and birth care in the United States, particularly regarding people with marginalized identities. We describe the use of language in written documentation, verbal communication, and behaviors associated with caring for pregnant people. We also present recommendations for change, including alternative language at the individual, clinician, hospital, health systems, and policy levels. We define birth as the emergence of a new individual from the body of its parent, no matter what intervention or pathology may be involved. Thus, we propose a cultural shift in hospital-based care for birthing people that centers the birthing person and reconceptualizes all births as physiologic events, approached with a spirit of care, partnership, and support.
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Mayne G, Buckley A, Ghidei L. Why Causation Matters: Rethinking "Race" as a Risk Factor. Obstet Gynecol 2023; 142:766-771. [PMID: 37678936 PMCID: PMC10510830 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000005332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Although it is tempting to construe the correlation between Black "race" and higher rates of preterm birth as causal, this logic is flawed. Worse, the continued use of Black "race" as a risk factor for preterm birth is actively harmful. Using Black "race" as a risk factor suggests a causal relationship that does not exist and, critically, obscures what actually causes Black patients to be more vulnerable to poorer maternal and infant outcomes: anti-Black racism. Failing to name anti-Black racism as the root cause of Black patients' vulnerability conceals key pathways and tempts us to construe Black "race" as immutably related to higher rates of preterm birth. The result is that we overlook two highly treatable pathways-chronic stress and implicit bias-through which anti-Black racism negatively contributes to birth. Thus, clinicians may underuse important tools to reduce stress from racism and discrimination while missing opportunities to address implicit bias within their practices and institutions. Fortunately, researchers, physicians, clinicians, and medical staff can positively affect Black maternal and infant health by shifting our causal paradigm. By eliminating the use of Black "race" as a risk factor and naming anti-Black racism as the root cause of Black patients' vulnerability, we can practice anti-racist maternity care and take a critical step toward achieving birth equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Mayne
- Department of Health & Behavioral Sciences, University of Colorado, Denver, Colorado; the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Department of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York; and Reproductive Specialists of the Carolinas, Charlotte, North Carolina
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