 |
The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
|
The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
Marilyn Kennedy, PhD, Penny A. Hatcher, MSN, DrPH, and Maureen Fuchs, PHN. Division of Family Health, MCH Section, Minnesota Department of Health, P.O. Box 64882, St. Paul, MN 55164-0882
In 2000 the Minnesota state legislature appropriated $7 million (TANF funds) per year for fiscal years, 2001-2003, to provide public health home visiting services primarily to low-income families-that is, families at or below 200% of poverty-with a minor child or pregnant woman. Eighty-six (86) of 87 counties in the state contracted with the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) to participate in this program. During fiscal year (FY) 2001, 67 of the 86 participating counties were able to enroll eligible clients in the program, producing a total of 4702 participants: 2702 children (ages 0-19) and 2,000 parents or primary caregivers. Within the parent/caregiver category were 505 women who were pregnant at the time of enrollment. Each contracting county was required to complete an annual statistical report, as well as a qualitative questionnaire describing the barriers, challenges, and highlights of the program during the first year. More than three-quarters (79%) of participants (2708 children and 1619 caregivers) remained in the program at year-end, while 21% had exited at various points during FY 2001. A statewide evaluation plan-which included overall goals, measurable objectives, and outcome indicators-was developed for use in assessing the program. This session will present the results of that evaluation, as well as identify the challenges, barriers, and accomplishments of the first year. Success stories will be presented, along with recommendations, limitations, and early conclusions.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: Home Visiting, Welfare
Related Web page: www.health.state.mn.us/divs/fh/mch/homevisit
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
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.