Although rates for health insurance coverage and adequate prenatal care for each New England state are generally better than rates reported for the U.S., many eligible women are still not enrolled in private or public programs that promote access to and cover prenatal care. Well-trained CHWs can provide an important link to help uninsured women seek adequate prenatal care and other social support services. According to the 1998 National Community Health Advisor Study, many CHWs are placed in a role that requires them to perform beyond their skills and training. The study recommends incorporating core skills and competencies into regional and state-based trainings. Currently in its 10th year, New England Maternal Outreach (NEMO) is a unique, annual three-day training offered to perinatal CHWs and supervisors serving New England states. The number of participants has increased 50% since 1998. In 2000, 151 participants attended from eight states. The curriculum includes training in perinatal health and community-specific issues, but is unique in that it also provides coping strategies for stress and burnout and recognizes “best practices” in outreach strategies through a nomination process and awards ceremony. In addition, the conference format enables participants to take part in extra-curricular activities during the evening hours to promote regional networking in a social context. NEMO has established a web site to help participants stay connected throughout the year, and to provide up-to-date information about the institute. Finally, NEMO offers scholarships to offset the costs of attending the training. See www.nemo-outreach.org
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to: 1) understand that benefits to community health workers of offering professional development in a retreat model; 2) articulate the components of the NEMO model; 3) describe the planning, implementation and evaluation phases of NEMO
Keywords: Professional Development, Maternal and Child Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: March of Dimes
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: employee