“MAMA’s is like a second mom:” Client and Staff Experiences in a Comprehensive Social Risk Care Management Program Within a Perinatal Medical Home

This study seeks to understand the experiences of staff and clients within the MAMA’s program to identify what factors decrease stress, how the program addresses racism and the challenges and opportunities of optimizing health during the COVID-19 pandemic.Methods21 staff and 34 clients completed semi-structured interviews from November 2020 –December 2021. Separate interview guides for staff and clients explored experiences within the program, experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how racism affects clients. Interviews were recorded and transcribed. Analysis used a phenomenologic framework. Coding was performed using grounded theory to identify themes.ResultsAnalysis revealed six key themes: Stressors clients face, barriers for undocumented, Latina, and Spanish-speaking clients, exceptional care, emotional support, naming and responding to racism and discrimination, and impacts of COVID-19 pandemic.DiscussionStaff and clients work together to address social needs in order to address chronic stress and racism in their lives, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Interviews revealed relationship building is a cornerstone of the program ’s success and plays a significant role in alleviating chronic stress in this population.
Source: Maternal and Child Health Journal - Category: Health Management Source Type: research