What Role Does the Public Health Workforce in ‘Maternity Care Deserts’ Play in Addressing Gaps in Care?
Description:
Little research has explored how different staffing mixes at local health departments (LHDs) located in ‘maternity care deserts’ (MCDs) might impact perinatal health outcomes. This study will examine the availability of maternal and child health (MCH)-focused public health staff in MCDs, and whether the availability of MCH staff is associated with better perinatal outcomes. This will help guide resource allocation and inform policy for MCH workforce development and support in MCDs.
Lead Researcher: Paula Kett, PhD, MPH, RN, IBCLC
Contact Info: pmk@uw.edu
Funder:
HRSA: HWRC Health Equity
Status:
In Progress