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The United States has an ongoing maternal and infant health crisis, characterized by stark disparities. The WIC program could equitably improve health outcomes, but it is underutilized. Identifying strategies for healthcare systems to efficiently connect pregnant patients with WIC is a public health and policy priority. This study will use the electronic health record (EHR) to screen pregnant patients for WIC enrollment, and automate referrals to local WIC programs The study aims to (1) survey and interview pregnant patients and providers on EHR-based WIC care coordination; (2) pilot a WIC screening and referral system in 3 obstetric -clinics; and (3) Using EHR data, examine association of WIC enrollment with risk of adverse perinatal outcomes. The study setting is the Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist (AHWFB) health system in North Carolina. Participants will vary by aim and include Medicaid-insured or uninsured pregnant patients and their infants, WIC program staff, and clinic staff.
Start Date: November 2023
ID #: 81353
Principal Investigator: Kristina Lewis, MD, MPH, SM
Organization: Wake Forest University Health Sciences
Funding Round: HER Round 13
Focus Areas: Early Childhood, Nutrition Policy & Programs
Resource Type: Grant Summary
State: North Carolina
Age Groups: Pregnant women, infants and toddlers (ages 0 to 2), Preschool-age children (ages 3 to 5)
Keyword: Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
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