Improving Access to Perinatal Mental Health Care in Miami: An Initial Study [ID 1413]

INTRODUCTION: Mental health conditions are the leading cause of pregnancy-related deaths and a significant risk factor for maternal morbidity, poor birth outcomes, and higher health care costs. Barriers to accessing perinatal mental health care include cost, practitioner shortages, and inadequate training. This study analyzed the effect of a direct referral process between obstetrics and gynecology (ob-gyn) and psychiatry to improve timely access to perinatal mental health care in Miami. METHODS: Women seen in ob-gyn clinics and inpatient service from July 2023 to September 2024 (n=150) were assessed for mental health needs with a direct referral process for an appointment with a perinatal psychiatrist and/or mental health provider. Data included pregnancy stage, age, race, and length of time to see a mental health professional from initial referral. A one-sample t-test compared the length of time to see a perinatal psychiatrist to the average length of time as documented in the literature. Cohen's D was calculated to evaluate effect size. RESULTS: Of the referrals, 58% were postpartum, 27% were aged 31–35, 44% were Hispanic/Latina, 27% were Black/African American, and 26% were White/Caucasian. The average time to see any mental health professional was 5 days. The average time to see a perinatal psychiatrist was 27 days ( P <.01), with an effect size of 0.57. CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS: A streamlined referral process between ob-gyn and psychiatry significantly improves timely access to perinatal mental health care. The findings underscore the need for interdisciplinary collaboration, more perinatal mental health providers, and research on social factors influencing access to maternal care.