4254.0: Tuesday, November 14, 2000 - Board 2

Abstract #6231

Impact of community health workers on the self-determination, self-sufficiency, and decision-making ability of low-income pregnant women and mothers of young children

Andrea Crivelli Kovach, PhD, CHES, Health Education/Health Administration, Beaver College, 450 South Easton Road, GLenside, PA 19038, 215-572-4014, kovacha@camelot.beaver.edu and Julie Becker, PhD, MPH, Temple University.

Background: Philadelphia has one of the highest infant mortality and morbidity rates in the United States. Pregnant women and new mothers who are at high risk for adverse health outcomes can benefit from the services of community health workers. The Maternity Care Coalition identifies at-risk women and provides links to health care and social services through the MOMobile Program. The purpose of this study was to explore a) the relationship formed between community health workers and clients and b) the change over time in a mother's perceived level of self-sufficiency, self-determination, and decision-making skills. Methods: A multiphase study was developed to collect data. Focus group interviews with community health workers explored their professional role, their relationship with their clients, and the meaning of decision-making, self-sufficiency, and self-determination. A questionnaire was developed to measure each concept at registration and again at 3 months postpartum. A pilot study with 39 women was conducted. Scores for each concept were calculated and the pre and post scores compared to measure change in the three concepts. Results: The postpartum mean score for decision-making, self-sufficiency, and self-determination were significantly different from the mean scores of the clients at registration in the MOMobile Program. Conclusions: The questionnaire will be used as an evaluation tool to measure changes in life skills during participation in the MOMobile Program. More research into the relationship formed between community health workers and the mothers they assist is needed to assess the full impact of this variable as a health status indicator.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participant will be able to: 1. Describe the concepts of self-determination, self-sufficiency, and decision-making as defined by community advocates in the MOMobile Program. 2. Discuss the use of a multiphase approach to developing and implementing an evaluation tool. 3. Evaluate the impact of the relationship of community health advocates on the self-determination, self-sufficiency, and decision-making ability of low-income pregnant women and mothers of young children

Keywords: Community Health Advisor, Evaluation

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Research and evaluation consultant for the Maternity Care Coalition in Philadelphia, PA.

The 128th Annual Meeting of APHA