Intention to Engage in Maternal and Child Health Home Visiting

Abstract

ABSTRACT Home visiting (HV) programs have the potential to improve maternal and child health. As federal and state initiatives expand the reach of these programs, understanding what factors enhance uptake and retention of the services becomes increasingly important. This qualitative study used a Reasoned Action Model (RAM) and a cultural lens to explore factors influencing the engagement of women with low-income in HV programs. We conducted 21 semi-structured interviews in both English and Spanish in a prenatal clinic in an urban public health department. The constructs most salient for participants were emotions and affect, behavioral beliefs, and self-efficacy. In the context of an urban public health prenatal clinic, HV marketing and outreach should highlight convenience and social support, as well as clearly communicate program content and intent. In practice, HV programs must be flexible to work around work and home schedules; marketing and outreach should emphasize that flexibility.