Postpartum Outcomes Among Individuals Participating in a Postpartum Patient Navigation Program [ID 1426]

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to assess postpartum care utilization among participants of a postpartum patient navigation (PN) program. METHODS: Pregnant patients greater than 32 weeks of gestation at risk for postpartum morbidity were invited to participate in a PN program between October 2023 and April 2024. Patients with intrapartum complications, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, diabetes, or risk factors for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders were considered at risk. Enrolled patients met virtually or in person with the navigator at delivery, 2, 6, and 12 weeks postpartum. A matched cohort was created with patients who delivered 6 months before program implementation. Participants were matched by race, ethnicity, parity, delivery method, and high-risk criteria. Bivariable analyses were performed to compare adherence to standard postpartum care recommendations. RESULTS: Of the 104 patients enrolled during the study period, 100 were included in the analysis and matched to historical controls. Demographic and clinical characteristics did not differ between the two groups. Total attendance at the postpartum visit did not differ (94% versus 90%, P =.30). However, the PN group was more likely to attend the postpartum visit in person (56% versus 39%, P =.02), be screened for postpartum depression (96% versus 69%, P < 0.001), continue breastfeeding at 6 weeks postpartum (91% versus 65%, P < 0.001), and enroll in a remote hypertension monitoring program (59% versus 27%, P =.01). CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS: Although postpartum visit attendance did not differ between groups, postpartum PN increased adherence to other standard recommendations like mood screening, longer breastfeeding duration, and blood pressure monitoring.