Stakeholder evaluation of a high-risk prenatal nutrition intervention program in Prince Edward Island

Since 1971, a Prince Edward Island prenatal program has provided nutrition support to pregnant women at high risk for poor birth outcomes. Provincial changes in the delivery of health care services since 1986 have caused concern that the program is becoming less effective. The current research was designed to evaluate stakeholders satisfaction with the program; it was part of a larger study conducted in 1998 and 1999 to evaluate overall program effectiveness. Nutritionists (n=9), referring health professionals (n=57), and clients (n=50) completed a survey. The results indicated that program satisfaction was high for all stakeholders. Perceived program strengths included the counselling approach, program quality, food and income supplements, and accessibility. Perceived program weaknesses included inadequate staff/time, administrative requirements, limited communication/awareness, the counselling approach, and difficulty contacting clients. Recommendations for improvement fall into four key areas: staff services, program delivery, the counselling approach, and communication. The findings suggest that the components of prenatal education considered important vary among clients and staff, and that the relationship developed between staff and clients during counselling is an important contributor to program success.