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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Christine M. Morgan, EdD, CHES, Biomedical Sciences Program, Midwestern University, 19555 N. 59th Ave., Glendale, AZ 85308, 623-572-3222, cmorga@midwestern.edu

The purpose of this study was to increase awareness of the rising incidence of premature births and its impact on public health, among future healthcare providers. Study participants included 128 first year Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) students and 70 first year Physician Assistant (PA) students at Midwestern University. A CD-ROM produced by the Arizona chapter of the March of Dimes was used to increase the knowledge of the prevalence of premature births and the public health implications. A pre-/post-test design was used to evaluate the knowledge gain after viewing the prematurity CD-ROM during a single class period. Post-test scores were significantly better than pre-test scores (p<0.001), with a knowledge increase of 34.5% among DO students and 42.5% among PA students. Student evaluation results suggested that the CD-ROM: (1) provided prematurity information in a clear and effective manner; (2) increased student knowledge of prematurity issues; and (3) increased student awareness of the importance of preventing preterm births.

Learning Objectives: After viewing this poster, the viewer will

• Have an increased awareness of the rising incidence of premature births and its impact on public health.
• Discuss the results of the Prematurity Education Project designed to educate future healthcare providers on public health issues related to prematurity.

Keywords: Maternal and Child Health, High Risk Infants

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Not Answered