The debate over the importance of prenatal care in determining birth outcome has most often focused on the quantity but not the quality of care. This study, controlling for demographic characteristics, risk, and the quantity of prenatal care, measures the impact of a program that fully meets accepted standards of prenatal care. The study utilizes data from the 1996-97 NYC births files. Singleton births financed by Medicaid for which the mother had at least one prenatal care visit comprise the study population (N=107,891). Births to mothers who received prenatal care at MIC-Women's Health Services clinics, known for providing high-quality, comprehensive care to low-income women, are compared to those for which care was received elsewhere. Additionally, WIC participation is considered as a component of quality care, given evidence of successful birth outcomes among WIC mothers and MIC's efforts to insure WIC enrollment. Since 84.6% of MIC mothers are WIC participants, the interaction between MIC and WIC participation will be evaluated. Preliminary analysis shows that the LBW rate among women who were both MIC and WIC participants is low, 7.0%, compared to other women who participated in neither program or only one whose rates ranged from 7.3% to 7.4% (p=NS). Differences in gestational age are significant (p<.05): 7.6% at <37 weeks for mothers in both MIC and WIC, compared to a range of 7.8% to 8.8% for others. Final results will provide a better understanding of the components of prenatal care which may have an impact on birth outcomes.
Learning Objectives: Final results will provide a better understanding of the components of prenatal care which may have an impact on birth outcomes
Keywords: Prenatal Care, Pregnancy Outcomes
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: MIC-Women's Health Services clinics
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.