Taking Community Action: Qualitative Analysis of Patient Perceptions of Postpartum Care [ID 876]

INTRODUCTION: Maternal morbidity and mortality remain important public health crises in the United States. Addressing the underlying issues must incorporate aspects of health care delivery, social determinants of health, and community engagement. We sought to gather patient and community input into patient experiences and perspectives regarding maternal mortality and postpartum care. METHODS: Semistructured interviews (n=8) and two focus group sessions were conducted with female-identifying community members. Data were recorded at community events. Interviews were later transcribed using word processing software. Thematic analysis was completed using qualitative analysis software. Finally, a survey was developed and used (n=7) to learn more about participant stressors. RESULTS: Twenty-six female-identifying individuals participated in the focus groups or interviews. Most participants identified as Black (84%) and were between 20 and 49 years of age (81%). Participants reported significant barriers to attending postpartum appointments, including transportation, maternal stress, cultural differences between staff and patients, lack of maternal support, and technology barriers. When asked about perception of maternal mortality, participants thought stress, predominantly financial stress, was the most significant contributing factor. Suggestions from participants to improve postpartum visit compliance included virtual visit options, changing the type and frequency of appointment reminders, and staff cultural or sensitivity training. CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS: Addressing factors associated with maternal mortality involves a multifactorial approach. This includes seeking to understand a patient’s socioeconomic and cultural situation and barriers to postpartum care. This qualitative study provides important patient input for quality improvement efforts. Next steps include working with the community to develop interventions addressing the identified issues.