Date of Award

Spring 3-26-2024

Embargo Period

4-23-2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Health Administration

Department

Health Administration

College

College of Health Professions

First Advisor

Abby Swanson- Kazley

Second Advisor

Kit Simpson

Third Advisor

Brandi L. Wright

Abstract

Hospital readmissions during pregnancy nationwide impacts maternal health outcomes elevating the risk of maternal deaths after discharge. The accessibility and affordability of necessary prenatal care is integral to the field of health across the lifespan. Socioeconomic barriers within rural locations place expecting mothers at an adverse risk of developing conditions including preeclampsia and other complications that may result in hospital readmission. Economic barriers including hospital closures, shortages of specialty healthcare providers, unstable internet access and, ease of care access on further contribute to this disparity among rural women.

A retrospective analysis was conducted using data from Health Care Cost and Utilization Project for the state of Florida in 2019, comparing rural versus non rural zip codes. This analysis was conducted to assess the rate of admission for mothers experiencing preeclampsia and pregnancy-related complications who lived in rural settings within the state. As Public Health Maternal and Child Health graduate and former employee of REACHUP, Incorporated, I have observed many barriers and socio-economic factors impacting rural maternal health. The provision of multifaceted support, emphasizing patient advocacy, and monitoring efforts to address medical concerns for women experiencing medical emergencies and additional barriers to care is necessary in addressing this disparity.

Rights

Copyright is held by the author. All rights reserved.

Download

Share

COinS