Oral

Much of the social science and midwifery literature published in the last three decades heavily critiques the obstetrical treatment of birth. Rather than adding to this growing body of properly critical literature, we decided to take a positive and constructive approach, describing “birth models that work.” Centering prenatal group care is an evidence-based model of health care that shows promise for better perinatal outcomes and promotes individual empowerment and community building. Instead of short appointments that rush both patients and providers, patients with similar health needs meet with their provider for two hours. The Preterm Labor Assessment Toolkit (PLAT) is an evidence-based toolkit designed to standardize the assessment and disposition of patients presenting with the signs and symptoms of preterm labor through the use of an algorithm to evaluate cervical change and status of membranes to determine whether or not a woman is in active preterm labor. Methods for establishing successful, effective mobile health programs, with a focus on design and implementation, will be elucidated. In addition, unique challenges, including potential barriers and pitfalls, will be shared. we will examine whether having a doula through the Birth Sisters program at Boston Medical Center (BMC) can better help connect women to the healthcare system post-delivery.

Session Objectives: 1.Identify particular birth models that work and describe those models. 2.Describe settings for the practice birth models that work, including hospitals, freestanding birth centers, clinics, and midwifery birth services. 3.Compare the educational birth models that work which are based in universities, vocational programs, and out-of-hospital apprenticeship. 4.Describe some of the beneficial health outcomes experienced by patients receiving Centering group care 5.Centering prenatal group care is an evidence-based model of health care that shows promise for better perinatal outcomes and promotes individual empowerment and community building. 6.Explain three key components of a successful mobile health program

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH)