Multiregional characterisation of collaboration between clinical and community-based organisations for postpartum transition care delivery: A mixed methods study protocol.

INTRODUCTION

The USA exhibits the highest rate of maternal mortality among developed high-income countries. These deaths most commonly occur during the postpartum year and are largely preventable. Individuals that live in medically underserved areas and lack access to transitional care following childbirth are at higher risk for maternal mortality, severe maternal morbidity and adverse pregnancy outcomes. National US organisations have proposed implementation of innovative models, including coordinated postpartum service delivery across clinical and community-based organisations (CBOs), to help overcome key challenges contributing to postpartum health disparities. Yet, experiences of clinical and community organisations in forging postpartum service partnerships remain poorly defined. This study aims to characterise how clinical organisations and CBOs identify effective practices in postpartum transition care that best address disparities in pregnancy-related morbidity and mortality among individuals residing in maternity care deserts and low-resource communities.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This study uses a convergent mixed methods research design. Semi-structured qualitative interviews will be conducted with CBO representatives to assess current practices and implementation strategies of postpartum transition care within community organisations. Additionally, a needs assessment survey will be administered to clinicians from safety-net health systems and staff members from CBOs to evaluate perceptions, practices and needs associated with integrated clinical and community-based postpartum service delivery. Data analysis will be conducted through qualitative thematic analysis and quantitative descriptive statistics and regression analyses.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This study was approved by The Ohio State University’s Institutional Review Board (Protocol #2024H0450). We will disseminate our study findings through academic products including peer-reviewed manuscripts and professional conference presentations as well as through community-centred lay-language summaries shared with our participating organisations, Stakeholder Advisory Committee and research consortium partners.