Background: Low birthweight continues to be a major public health concern in the U.S. In 1997, LA had 10.1% LBW as compared to the nation at 7.5% LBW . The U.S. LBW goal for 2010 is 5%. This study compares women who received publicly funded prenatal care to their birth outcomes of birthweight and gestation age to identify factors that explain if different forms of publicly prenatal care are associated with improved birth outcomes.
Approximately 50% of pregnant women in LA used public health services sometime during their pregnancies in 1997-1998. Low income women (under 185% of FPL) can receive free or reduced cost prenatal care services from the Louisiana Office of Public Health. The services are provided either directly at one of the state operated 105 parish health units (PHU) or through private physicians who see Medicaid patients.
Methods: This study analyzes linked birth certificate data with the OPH health service data for 1997-1998. A sub-analysis on Louisiana Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System data is included for birth years 1997-1998. This research examines the relationship between birth outcomes to exposure to publicly funded prenatal care. The model includes control variables and potential confounders such as: socio-demographic characteristics, prenatal care utilization, access to counseling and education, maternal risk behaviors, and reported domestic violence.
Implications: The study’s finding are intended for MCH program planners to determine if the increased resources necessary to provide more comprehensive prenatal care through the PHUs significantly contribute to the reduction of poor birth outcomes.
Learning Objectives: 1)Describe significant factors associated with low birthweight births to low income mothers in Louisiana. 2)Discuss the relationship between different sources of publicly funded prenatal care to healthy birth outcomes
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals, Office of Public Health
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.