Intention to Engage in Maternal and Child Health Home Visiting

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Maternal and Child Health
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Home visiting (HV) programs aim to enhance maternal and child health outcomes.
• Expanding federal and state initiatives necessitate understanding factors influencing HV program engagement.
• Qualitative research is crucial for exploring nuanced engagement factors in diverse populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore factors influencing engagement of low-income women in home visiting programs.
• To apply the Reasoned Action Model (RAM) and a cultural lens to understand engagement.
• To identify actionable strategies for improving HV program uptake and retention.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study utilizing 21 semi-structured interviews.
• Interviews conducted in English and Spanish within an urban public health prenatal clinic.
• Analysis informed by the Reasoned Action Model (RAM) and a cultural perspective.

Main Results:

• Key influencing factors included emotions and affect, behavioral beliefs, and self-efficacy.
• Participants emphasized the importance of convenience and social support.
• Flexibility in scheduling to accommodate work and home life was a critical element.

Conclusions:

• HV marketing and outreach should emphasize program convenience, social support, and flexibility.
• Clear communication of program content and intent is vital for engagement.
• Adapting HV programs to be flexible is essential for retaining low-income participants.