O90 - Barriers and enablers for antenatal care access of women engaged with social work services in the Geelong North region

Abstract

The early years of a child’s life (including the in-utero environment) have an important influence on their immediate and long-term developmental and health outcomes. Intervening as early as possible is key to preventing these consequences. Effective engagement with perinatal services during pregnancy and the postnatal period can have a positive impact on the long-term health and wellbeing of children and families. Evidence shows that uptake of antenatal care services is lower among disadvantaged communities, resulting in less two-way information sharing, fewer assessments and screenings, and reduced informed decision-making. A number of barriers to service access exist, however these are dependent on the context within which individuals live. The Geelong North region has been identified as a significantly socio-economically disadvantaged area and has one of the highest rates of neurodevelopmental vulnerability in school-aged children. Antenatal care access is poor; therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the barriers and enablers to uptake of antenatal services in the Geelong North Region. A qualitative interview study using a constructivist grounded theory approach undertaken. Participants included 6 pregnant women engaged with social workers at Barwon Health and 11 clinicians involved in their antenatal care. Key barriers included difficulties in access, due to location, balancing appointment scheduling with personal commitments, and perceptions of care. Key enablers included the provision of practical and health related support, continuity of care and non-judgemental staff attitudes. A service that best suits the needs of women experiencing social disadvantage in Geelong North is centred on the philosophy of continuity of care. It is flexible, close to women, considers their lives outside the health service and avoids stigmatisation. A one-stop-shop where women can receive care from pre-conception through early childhood is likely to have the best outcomes for families in the region.