Perspectives on collaboration in maternity and child health: Patients and caregivers’ views

Abstract Background The World Health Organization promotes people-centred organization of maternity care and preventive child healthcare (PCHC). However, globally and in the Netherlands, these services often operate separately, causing care discontinuity. We posit that this disproportionately affects vulnerable patients, hindering tailored-care. Our aim is to explore how collaboration between healthcare providers is perceived by mothers and providers, and understanding challenges and needs for integration. Methods We conducted 14 semi-structured interviews with mothers (n = 9) and healthcare providers (midwives, PCHC caregivers, n = 5). Women were categorized as non-vulnerable, potentially vulnerable, or vulnerable based on social situation, enabling comparison of care experiences. Results We found that the experienced interprofessional collaboration varied; most non-vulnerable women perceived the interprofessional collaboration as sufficient, whereas women from the potentially vulnerable group were uncertain who to turn to when help was needed. They expressed a need for expectation management to know what to expect from different healthcare providers. Furthermore, they were confused about which healthcare domain (i.e., maternity care or PCHC) ‘was in the lead’ in the postnatal period. Healthcare providers expressed a need for mutual understanding of expertise to foster trust and ease transitions between maternity care and PCHC. Themes emerged: organizational structures, support levels for collaboration, and trust among providers. Conclusions Our findings suggest the necessity for governance and shared ownership in healthcare collaboration in the maternity care and PCHC continuum to meet the needs of potentially vulnerable women effectively. Key messages • Experienced interprofessional collaboration varies among women based on vulnerability. • Clear governance and shared ownership are crucial for meeting the needs of potentially vulnerable women in maternity and child health services.