Evaluation of the Improved Pregnancy Outcome Program: Variations to the Evaluation Methodology

摘要

The purpose of the study was to evaluate states' activities associated with the Improved Pregnancy Outcome (IPO) program, utilizing an evaluation manual developed by GEOMET under a prior contract. Descriptive and statistical comparisons were made across programs implemented in five states which had received grants during the first year of funding. Comparisons were also made between the areas in which the five programs were operating and five similar areas without IPO resources. The evaluative results indicated that the IPO program met with mixed success during its first year of operation. Several programs experienced improvements in measures of pregnancy outcome and/or activity levels, but two of the programs made no measurable achievements. Despite some political problems, management problems, and hiring difficulties, the programs filled numerous gaps in the perinatal care systems surrounding their operation. Relative to areas without IPO resources, the IPO areas took more advanced steps toward development of a regionalized system of care and generally placed a greater emphasis on identification/care of high-risk patients, tracking of patients, and efforts to assess quality of care and monitor pregnancy outcomes. Recommendations were also provided to assist the future direction of the Federal IPO initiative.