Evaluating TeamBirth's Effect on Autonomy for Minoritized Populations in Labor [ID 2683585

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Prioritization of maternal autonomy and communication can greatly affect obstetric care experiences. We implemented TeamBirth—an initiative designed to center the patient, their preferences, and autonomy through standardized team communication in labor. We sought to understand how TeamBirth affected obstetric care experiences, through self-reported autonomy, for minority populations. METHODS: TeamBirth “huddles” in labor included patients, labor support persons, physicians, and nursing team members participating in standardized communication approaches, supplemented with whiteboard and decision-support guides. From May 2021 to May 2022, surveys administered postpartum inpatient were collected from birthing persons. We used the Mother’s Autonomy in Decision Making Scale (MADM) to measure autonomy. MADM scores in the highest quartile (scores ranged 34–42) were considered as having high autonomy. RESULTS: Over one-third (36.4%) of the 762 respondents were of minoritized populations (eg, Black, Hispanic) versus White (63.3%). When considering race/ethnicity, high autonomy was not related to minoritized group (P=.944). The majority (86%) of high autonomy respondents had one or more huddles, compared to 71% with low autonomy (P<.001). When evaluating the relationship of number of huddles to high autonomy, the minority group was not different compared to White patients (interaction P=.915). CONCLUSION: Patients who experienced huddles during intrapartum care reported higher autonomy regardless of minority status. Use of the TeamBirth initiative has potential to increase autonomy and improve obstetric experiences. Early data indicate that patient experiences of minoritized populations can be improved with TeamBirth; additional investigation is indicated.