The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #60746

Anne Wallis, PhD, Dept. of Community & Behavioral Health, Center for Public Health Program Evaluation, University of Iowa, College of Public Health, 4258 Westlawn, Iowa City, IA 52242, 319-335-9642, anne-wallis@uiowa.edu and Roline Milfort, PhD, Center for Family Research, George Washington University Medical Center, 2300 I Street, NW, Ross Hall, Room 613, Washington, DC 20037.

This research studied the characteristics and needs of the Haitian population in Palm Beach County, Florida, in order to (1) help providers better understand maternal and child health (MCH) service needs within the population, (2) identify barriers to accessing MCH services, and (3) offer recommendations for improving service delivery. This study used grounded theory and qualitative research methods. In addition to analyzing Census and birth record data, we held open-ended individual and group interviews with MCH providers (n=8). We conducted participant observation during home visits to 16 families and held informal conversations with clients during and after home visits. We used formal qualitative analysis to classify text-based responses and observations through a structured coding system that allowed us to search for new ideas, themes, and concepts. Our results indicated that while there are no official estimates of the number of Haitian immigrants living in Palm Beach County, estimates suggest the presence of about 50,000 Haitians with about 20 new immigrants arriving each week. MCH providers conservatively estimate that they serve about 200 Haitian women per month. Key findings focus on demographics and birth outcomes; family issues and household composition; use of and access to healthcare; barriers to accessing services; and client attitudes. We offer recommendations based on each findings area. Many of these findings have not surfaced in previous studies and they represent concerns of growing importance as providers attempt to meet the needs of the growing Haitian population.

Learning Objectives:

• To increase understanding of an underserved, minority population that is growing in South Florida.
• To describe grounded theory research methods using qualitative data collection and analysis.
• To report on population characteristics, service needs, and barriers to MCH access and provide concrete recommendations.

Keywords: Immigrants, Evaluation

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.