Findings from the Development of the Person-Centered Prenatal Care scale for People of Color are described by lead author Patience A. Afulani. Additional authors include Molly R. Altman, Esperanza Castillo, Nayeli Bernal, Linda Jones, Tanefer Camara, Zoe Carrasco, Shanell Williams, May Sudhinaraset, Miriam Kuppermann.
Please describe your research findings.
Given stark disparities in maternal mortality and adverse birth outcomes among Black, Indigenous, and other people of color, there is a need to better understand and measure how individuals from these communities experience their care during pregnancy. We developed a tool that measures “dignity and respect,” “communication and autonomy,” and “responsive and supportive care” during prenatal care. The questions capture issues of particular importance to people of color.
What is important or unique about this study?
To our knowledge, this is the first validated scale that centers the prenatal care experiences of people of color, particularly that of Black people. Also, we wanted to develop a tool that captured the unique experiences of people of color, and particularly Black people. We thus worked with them throughout the research process
What is already known about this topic, and how do your findings add to or change this existing knowledge?
We know from qualitative studies that Black and Brown are often mistreated in health care facilities. This tool will enable us to measure and track their experiences during prenatal care in a systematic manner, to develop interventions to improve their experiences
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Black women aren't being listened to during birth - this PTBi researcher is hoping to change that