Correlates of Postpartum Visits Among Medicaid Recipients: An Analysis Using Claims Data from a Managed Care Organization

Abstract

Background: The postpartum care visit (PPCV) plays an important role in ensuring the well-being of mother and infant. This study sought to assess correlates of PPCV attendance among women who are at high risk of nonattendance.

Materials and methods: This study used deidentified medical claims data from Virginia Premier-a nonprofit Managed Care Organization that provides health insurance for Medicaid beneficiaries. The association between various correlates and PPCV attendance was examined using multiple logistic regression analyses.

Results: Of the 25,692 women in the study, more than half (50.5%) did not attend a postpartum visit. Racial/ethnic minorities and women receiving the majority of their care at hospitals, Health Departments, or Federally Qualified Health Centers were more likely to attend their postpartum visit. Women who smoked and those who did not attend prenatal care had reduced odds of postpartum visit attendance. Age, education, and delivery method were not found to be significantly associated with PPCV attendance.

Conclusions: Our results highlight factors associated with attendance of PPCVs in low income populations. The continued disparity in postpartum care utilization compels additional efforts to improve access to health services across socioeconomic and demographic boundaries.

Keywords: Medicaid; postpartum visit; reproductive health.