Predictors of Well Child Care Adherence in Urban Infants
Author Information
Author(s): Anje C Van Berckelaer, Nandita Mitra, Susmita Pati
Primary Institution: University of Pennsylvania
Hypothesis
What factors predict adherence to well child care in low-income urban infants?
Conclusion
Adherence to well child care decreases significantly after 6 months of age, particularly among mothers with multiple children.
Supporting Evidence
- WCC adherence decreased from 88% at 6 months to 47% at 12 months.
- Married and primiparous mothers had significantly greater odds of adherence.
- Mothers with incomes less than $500/month had higher odds of adherence.
Takeaway
Moms need to take their babies to the doctor for check-ups, especially after 6 months, but many stop going. This study looks at why that happens.
Methodology
Secondary analysis of a cohort of Medicaid-eligible children followed from birth to 2 years with structured telephone surveys and electronic medical records.
Potential Biases
Potential for biased recall or social desirability bias, particularly regarding income.
Limitations
The study's population was primarily African American, limiting generalizability, and some subjects may have attended visits outside the EMR system.
Participant Demographics
92% African-American, 27% did not finish high school, 87% were single, mean age 23.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p < 0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 1.09-2.69 for married mothers; 95% CI: 1.36-2.63 for primiparous mothers.
Statistical Significance
p < 0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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