Supporting the Wake Forest School of Medicine in implementing a WIC referral program within electronic health records to optimize WIC participation

Start Date: November 2023

ID #: 81353

Principal Investigator: Kristina Lewis, MD, MPH, SM

Organization: Wake Forest University Health Sciences

Funding Round: HER Round 13

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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.

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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