I am writing in response to the “Negative Correlation Between Health Care Coverage and Postpartum Depression Among Hispanic Women” in the February 24, 2021, issue of the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. The risk of developing postpartum depression (PPD) is higher among Latinas, affecting 37% versus 10 to 15% of women of other ethnicities (Lara-Cinisomo et al., 2018). Latina women face many challenges because of their lower socioeconomic status, language barriers, and ethnic injustices. As a result, they are less likely to seek necessary treatment, mental health services, or report any concerns. In a study by Shellman et al. (2014) found that 60% of the Latina women experienced PPD, with 54% experiencing suicidal ideation. Early detection of PPD in Latina expectant mothers and community health worker (CHW) collaboration with obstetricians is crucial to decrease serious health consequences for mothers and infants. Women can experience bonding difficulties because of PPD which can lead to sleep disturbances, poor feeding, or cognitive defects for the infant.
Inter professional Team and Added Engagement
Adding a CHW to the inter professional team will improve the identification and treatment of PPD in Latina expectant mothers. CHWs share a common identity with members of their community such as culture, language, or socioeconomic status. The CHWs will be provided by a partnership between the obstetrician and local The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) offices. WIC staff already work closely with the mothers and their newborns in nutrition and often are bilingual. The provider or primary will refer the Latina mothers if the patient scores 8 or greater on the EPDS assessment. The CHWs will provide expectant mothers with needed services by collaborating with social workers, counselors, and lactation consultants. The CHW will meet with the expectant mothers to throughout their pregnancy to discuss social determinants of health needs. The CHW will work connect with the expectant mothers via home visits or telephonically to monitor their wellbeing. The benefits of continued outreach by the CHWs include establishing a trusting relationship that aids in connecting healthcare providers, psychosocial support, and assisting in coordinating resources (Lutenbacher et al., 2018).
Advocating For Policy Change
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