Date of Award

2021

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Health Administration

College

College of Health Professions

First Advisor

Kit N. Simpson

Second Advisor

Daniel Brinton

Third Advisor

Michelle Owens

Abstract

Objective: Performing a retrospective analysis of all live births to Mississippi residents for 2018, using the HCUP SID database; this study examines the relationship between individual and community-level socioeconomic characteristics to high risk and low birth weight outcomes among maternity health care deserts in Mississippi. Methods: Statistical differences between the subjects and the reference group were examined using Chi-square (χ2) tests and Fisher’s exact test. Logistic regression was used to assess mothers' risk in OB desert county for any adverse event after controlling for race and gender. Results: On average, babies in OB desert county had a likelihood of neonatal death 29.26% vs. 22.14% (P=0.0457). Black, female gender, and delivered by Cesarean Section (P=.0001) with a greater likelihood of an adverse event. Conclusion: There are many consequences associated with limited access to care. Besides low birth weight, prematurity, and maternal morbidity, there are increased risks for Cesarean Section. Findings indicate a need for collaborative efforts to improve access to care and improved advocacy for vaginal birth.

Rights

All rights reserved. Copyright is held by the author.

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