Facilitated Transition to Primary Care for Postpartum
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new approach to help new parents maintain strong connections with their primary care providers after giving birth. The goal is to improve postpartum care by simplifying visit scheduling and providing personalized health messages. This approach could be especially beneficial for those with ongoing health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, or mental health issues. Eligible participants include new parents who received care at an MGH-affiliated practice and have access to the electronic health portal. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity for new parents to contribute to enhancing postpartum care practices.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It is best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your healthcare provider.
What prior data suggests that this intervention is safe for postpartum care?
Research has shown that the Facilitated Transition to Primary Care for Postpartum aims to improve the organization of care after childbirth. However, specific safety data for this method is not available. Since it is a way to organize care rather than a new drug or medical device, safety concerns are typically lower compared to new medications or treatments.
The program assists by simplifying the scheduling of doctor visits, sending reminder messages to patients, and sharing care advice with doctors. These steps are generally safe and aim to help new parents connect with their healthcare providers more effectively.
In summary, although specific safety studies for this exact method are lacking, it is expected to be safe and low-risk.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the facilitated transition to primary care for postpartum women because it offers a more integrated and proactive approach compared to routine postpartum care. This method includes default scheduling for primary care physician visits, personalized nudge messages to keep patients engaged, and ongoing care recommendations sent directly to the primary care provider. Additionally, patients receive a summary of care recommendations after pregnancy, which empowers them with vital information for their health journey. This comprehensive support system aims to improve follow-up care and overall health outcomes for new mothers.
What evidence suggests that this facilitated transition to primary care is effective for postpartum care?
This trial will compare a facilitated transition to primary care with routine postpartum care. Studies have shown that helping new mothers smoothly transition into regular healthcare after giving birth greatly improves their postpartum care. Research suggests that automatically scheduling primary care visits and sending personalized reminders increases the likelihood of attending these appointments. Specifically, one study found that with these strategies, 75.8% of new mothers attended their primary care visits, compared to the usual rates of just 17% to 25%. This approach helps better manage issues like anxiety, depression, and high blood pressure. Overall, evidence shows that a well-organized shift to primary care can significantly improve health outcomes for new mothers.16789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Mark A Clapp, MD, MPH
Principal Investigator
Massachusetts General Hospital
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for postpartum individuals with chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, anxiety, or obesity. It aims to help those who have just given birth and are at risk of or already dealing with these health issues.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention
Participants receive a behavioral economics-informed intervention integrated into routine inpatient postpartum care, including default PCP visit scheduling and tailored nudge messages.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for primary care engagement, quality, and experience, with repeated outcome assessments through administrative and survey data.
Long-term Follow-up
Observation of sustained primary care engagement and health outcomes over an extended period.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Facilitated Transition to Primary Care
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Massachusetts General Hospital
Lead Sponsor
Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH)
Collaborator