COMPLIANCE WITH POST-DISCHARGE FOLLOW-UP: ≤1250g INFANTS. 626

Abstract

Neonates ≤ 1250g often require multidisciplinary follow-up care, particularly in the first year post-discharge; hence, compliance with keeping clinic appointments (appts) is essential. To assess compliance, we evaluated the number of appts kept and immunization status of 144 neonates discharged from our NICU and followed in our high-risk clinic (Jan., 92 to Dec., 93). Complete immunization was defined as 3 DPTs, 2 OPVs, 3 HIBs, and 3 HBVs ≤1 year post-discharge. Mean BW of the infants was 984± 194g; 87% were African American, 8% Hispanic; 23% of mothers were teenagers; 36% had no prenatal care; 33% were substance abusers (SA); 40% SA had guardian other than mother. Overall compliance, and that of SA patients, compared with No SA, is summarized: Table In summary, although poorer compliance with keeping appts was observed in the SA group, immunization status was not different from that of the No SA group as advantage of all kept appts was taken. Over one-third did not receive complete immunizations and, presumably, other essential follow-up care despite close tracking, phone reminders, and rescheduling efforts. Compliance may be enhanced by incentivizing clinic visits.