Online Program

334160
Leveraging trust in OB/GYN providers to improve delivery reform models for women


Monday, November 2, 2015

Gabrielle Stopper, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Washington, DC
Emily Stewart, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Washington, DC
background

Our nation’s healthcare system is rapidly moving towards innovative healthcare delivery models that reduce costs and improve health outcomes.  Trust in one’s healthcare provider is an important component of this transformation since trust has been linked to increased adherence to recommended care, use of preventive services, and improved healthcare behaviors.

objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate which primary healthcare providers women of reproductive age were most open and honest with – OB/GYN providers or family practice and internists. 

methods

A survey was conducted of 1,036 women ages 18-44 using the online survey panel, KnowledgePanel, which is a representative sample of the United States. 

results

Findings showed that more women of reproductive age reported being open and honest with an OB/GYN provider (56%) than a family practice or internist provider (40%).   Women ages 25-29 and 30-34 were more likely to be open and honest with their OB/GYN provider over family practice or internists (70% v. 28% and 63% v. 32%).  4% of respondents did not know or did not answer. 

conclusion

Women of reproductive age are more likely to be open and honest with their OB/GYN provider than other primary care providers.  This signals the need for OB/GYN providers to play a central role in delivery reform models that care for women.   The inclusion of OB/GYN providers as the primary provider and care coordinator in innovative care delivery models may lead to better health outcomes and enhanced cost savings because of the trust women have for these providers.  

Learning Areas:

Public health or related public policy

Learning Objectives:
Assess the relationship women of reproductive age have with OB/GYN providers as a main source of care. Identify opportunities to improve delivery reform efforts to ensure they meet the needs of women of reproductive age.

Keyword(s): Women's Health, Health Care Delivery

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I have worked on women's healthcare issues in the policy space for 5 years. My focus has been on healthcare reform and emerging delivery models. This work has included conducting research to understand women's experiences with healthcare.
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.