Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic and 2022 Formula Crisis on WIC Nutrition and Breastfeeding Peer Counseling Services in Connecticut: A Qualitative Study.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and the 2022 formula crisis on the Connecticut Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program.

DESIGN

Qualitative study using in-depth key informant interviews.

SETTING

The Connecticut WIC Nutrition and Breastfeeding Peer Counseling programs between December 2022 and June 2023.

PARTICIPANTS

Twelve WIC staff members: administrators (n = 2), peer counselors (n = 6), nutritionists/International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants (n = 3), and a breastfeeding coordinator (n = 1).

PHENOMENON OF INTEREST: The effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on (1) perinatal care for WIC mothers, (2) the provision of nutrition and breastfeeding peer counseling services in Connecticut, and (3) the effect of the 2022 formula crisis on peer counseling services and participants.

ANALYSIS: An inductive, iterative approach was used to identify themes from the interviews. Braun and Clarke's 6-step approach was used to analyze transcripts.

RESULTS

The pandemic caused disruptions to perinatal care that affected the peer counseling process and required a rapid shift in WIC structure, workflow, and communication approaches. The formula crisis led to uncertainty, confusion, and increased interest in breastfeeding. The WIC program adapted quickly by providing remote/virtual services and flexible service hours.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: These findings support the continued use of remote/virtual breastfeeding peer counseling services and operations in the state of Connecticut WIC program.