Assessing comprehension of the Parenting/Pregnancy Attitudes, Timing, and How Important (PATH) questions through cognitive interviewing

Abstract

Objectives: PATH, "Parenting/Pregnancy Attitudes, Timing, and How Important," is a method for providers to engage in a person-centered discussion about reproductive desires. This study sought to assess patient understanding of and receptivity to PATH questions.

Study design: Cognitive interviews were conducted with young adult (aged 18-29 years) patients at a federally qualified health center in New York (n = 10).

Results: Participants demonstrated clear comprehension and comfort with the PATH questions.

Implications: These data provide needed person-driven support for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Society of Family Planning's recommendation to implement PATH questions as a patient-centered method for discussing an individual's reproductive desires.

Keywords: Cognitive interviewing; Patient-centered care; Qualitative research; Reproductive desires.