Improving Postpartum Primary Care Coordination for Women With Chronic Conditions Using Behavioral Economics

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how to improve postpartum primary care engagement, quality, and experience for people with chronic conditions or pregnancy-related health issues. This study focuses on strengthening the transition from obstetric care to primary care using a behavioral economics-informed intervention integrated into usual inpatient postpartum care. Over 30% of pregnant people have conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, or mental health disorders that increase the risk of long-term health problems, yet many face challenges accessing primary care after delivery. The study compares routine postpartum care with an intervention that includes default scheduling of primary care visits, tailored reminder messages for patients, ongoing care recommendations sent to the primary care provider, and a summary of care recommendations given to patients after pregnancy. This randomized controlled trial will enroll 1,320 participants receiving obstetric care at affiliated practices, excluding those in a specialized clinic for substance use disorder. Participants are randomly assigned to either receive usual care or the multi-component intervention during their inpatient postpartum stay. Participants will be followed through repeated assessments using administrative and survey data up to 548 days after delivery. Researchers will measure primary care visit completion, use of recommended screenings and counseling, patient experience, mental health, and ongoing engagement with primary care. The study aims to provide evidence to make primary care coordination a standard part of postpartum care and improve long-term health outcomes for postpartum patients with chronic conditions.

Facilitated Transitions From Postpartum to Primary Care Coordination for People With Chronic Conditions