Examining satisfaction with health care and social services among pregnant and parenting african american women in rural communities

African American women have the highest rates of all ethnic/racial groups in almost every area of disease (National Center for Health Statistics, 1999). Thus, understanding client satisfaction among this critical population is tantamount to improving health outcomes. This qualitative study seeks to examine: (1) Were pregnant and parenting mothers satisfied with health care and social services? (2) What specific problems did they encounter? (3) What services did participants feel they needed but were unable to obtain? The study sample includes African American women, from14-35, who are pregnant and/or parenting children under the age of 2. Data were gathered over a three-month period, from May to July of 2004 in a rural southern community. A non-random, purposive sample of program graduates from a peer health education project was conducted. Community Health Workers recruited sixty-four focus group participants. Qualitative responses were transcribed and then analyzed using ATLAS.ti software. Participants revealed some dissatisfaction including perceived problems with Medicaid, lack of compassion among providers, and long wait times. Macro and micro-level barriers to improving quality of care are discussed including improving access to transportation. Satisfaction with services can be enhanced through evaluation aimed at program improvement.