Public health service systems and infrastructures at the community, State and/or national levels, as they apply to different maternal and child health (MCH) populations (1) based on demographic*, epidemiological, and/or other factors**.
(Correlates to MCHB Strategic Plan: FYs 2003-2007,
Goal 4: Improve the Health Infrastructure and Systems of Care.)
*Demographic factors may include age and developmental status, gender, race/ethnicity, geography, economic status, etc.
**Other factors may include legislation, policies, etc that may influence availability and access to specific services.
IMPORTANT: To assist the reader in better understanding what is meant by MCHB Strategic Research Issue #I, the following are examples of possible areas of study addressing this issue. They are only examples for illustrative purposes and do not constitute preferences for funding consideration. The Bureau strongly encourages research studies that specifically address issues related to MCHB investments and programs.
Effectiveness of Screening Programs for Women: Study the individual, system, and community factors associated with screening and assessment programs that lead to referral and utilization of intervention for risk factors such as substance abuse and other conditions (e.g., obesity, diabetes) that may affect health outcomes for women and/or their children.
Integrated systems of care specifically identified in Title V legislation for Children with Special Health Care Needs (CSHCN) (2): Determine the impact of Care Coordination (3) provided in the medical home and other settings on child and family outcomes for CSHCN.
Study public-private partnership models for provision of services, such as public health provision of “wrap around” or “enabling” services, and their overall relative efficacy and compared with private practice or public clinic only.
Investigate the processes involved in the transition of adolescents with special health care needs to adult health care, particularly the role of State health systems in facilitating or hindering transitions.
Investigate the effects of the organization and delivery of comprehensive, continuous services on the health status and services utilization of children/adolescents, including those with special health care needs and those vulnerable for poor psychosocial outcomes (e.g., children/youth in foster care, involved with the juvenile justice system, or who are homeless).
Assess the impact of integration of newborn screening program (NBS) on other MCH programs and enhanced data sharing at the State level and evaluate if screened children have access to medical homes (4).
