 | The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA |
|
| The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA |
Geradine D. Simkins, RN, CNM, MSN1, Elizabeth Knurek, MPH2, Rick Haverkate, MPH2, and Sandra King, RN, BSN2. (1) Healthy Start Project, Michigan Inter-Tribal Council, 214 Crossman St, Williamston, MI 48895, 517-655-0202, gera@speedconnect.com, (2) Health Services Division, Inter-Tribal Council of Michigan, Inc, 3601 Mackinaw Trail, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783-9286
Statement of Problem: Research has demonstrated that racial disparities in perintal outcomes are affected by several aspects of perinatal systems, including barriers to accessing care, content and quality of care, and attitudes and practices of service providers. The Maajtaaag Mnobmaadzid Healthy Start Project has provided an ongoing opportunity to explore key factors that impact disparities among Michigan’s Tribal people and point the way to solutions.
Methods: Several methods were used to gather data on how American Indian women and men perceive content and quality of prenatal care, accessibility, and education and support services including, video interviews, “Talking Circles”, and questionnaires. Using the same methods, input was also gathered from MCH providers, Healthy Start nurses and outreach workers.
Findings: Michigan Inter-Tribal Council’s Healthy Start Project is now in its sixth year. It serves seven rural Tribes and one urban site. After conducting a comprehensive assessment of perinatal systems serving Michigan Tribes, featuring input from consumers as well as service providers, we have developed several strategies to address substantial gaps in services. While contemporary perinatal systems have failed to adequately address the education, referral, treatment, and support needs of significant numbers of American Indian families, community-based initiatives are succeeding. Three of several key findings in our exploratory study are these: 1) mothers and infants receiving regular home visits before and after birth fare better, 2)community-based solutions impact health disparities in a positive way, 3) care provided by Healthy Start nurses is holistic, family-centered, culturally competent and addresses multiple needs.
Learning Objectives:
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Michigan Inter-Tribal Council's Healthy Start Project
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: MCH Consultant