Exploring the Values of Black Women Seeking Prenatal Care at a Free, Faith-Based Clinic

Black women in the United States face numerous barriers accessing high quality prenatal care. We sought to understand the experience of Black women getting prenatal care in a free faith-based medical clinic and to explore their experiences with staff and clinicians at the clinic.

From August 2022-January 2023, we conducted qualitative interviews with 14 Black women. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded by 2 researchers. After coding, researchers identified emerging themes through standard qualitative methods. The study was IRB reviewed and approved.

Patients identified meaningful relationships with clinic staff; the impact of a faith-based institution; the complicated relationships with clinicians; and the value of wrap-around services as key aspects of care.

This study highlighted the importance of interpersonal relationships and building trust. Findings support prior research showing Black women's' preference for race- and gender-concordant prenatal care and this being an important contributor to trust.