Provision of maternal health services among Ohio community pharmacists practicing in maternity care deserts

Over 2.3 million reproductive-age women in the United States live in a maternity care desert, a county without obstetric services or providers; over 3 million more reside in a county with low access to maternity care. The National Alliance of State Pharmacy Associations (NASPA) issued a toolkit outlining maternal health services community pharmacists are positioned to provide within their scope of practice.

The primary objective of this study was to determine whether community pharmacists practicing in maternity care deserts/low access areas in Ohio provide NASPA-recommended maternal health services. Secondary objectives were to assess knowledge and attitudes related to maternal health; interest and barriers for developing new services; and screening and referrals for key social determinants of health.

An anonymous cross-sectional survey was electronically distributed to Ohio community pharmacists working in maternity care deserts/low access areas (n = 216) in fall/winter 2023 to evaluate their awareness, practices, and attitudes.

Thirty-one pharmacists responded (14%). Almost half knew that maternal mortality had increased in recent years. Although 61% reported familiarity with the term "maternity care desert," only 35% recognized they are currently practicing in one. Provision of NASPA-recommended services to reproductive-age women ranged from 90% (immunizations) to 11% (alcohol use screening/counseling). About 96% believed that community pharmacists can help optimize women's health before and during pregnancy. The majority of respondents reported "never" screening for social determinants of health, but 48% were interested in learning more. While 67% of respondents are interested in providing more services for women at their pharmacy, they also reported obstacles like lack of time and staff.

There is a need to raise awareness about maternal mortality and maternity care deserts among Ohio community pharmacists. Given the interest expressed in providing additional services, pharmacists should receive more support to provide needed care for medically-underserved populations.