Increasing Breastfeeding Among African American Women

Presented by Linda Hines, RN, MS
September 18, 2008

Understanding The Problem

Breastfeeding rates differ substantially by race, socioeconomic level, and other demographic factors.

Goals and Rationale

• Increase the rate of breastfeeding among African American women in Richmond City and the county of Chesterfield from 22% (12/06) to 40% (4/30/07)
• Increase the length of breastfeeding efforts to at least four (4) weeks
• Educate members on the merits of breastfeeding such as improved health outcomes for their newborns
• Address barriers and the stigma of breastfeeding in the African American community

Intervention and Implementation

• Members were referred to lactation consultants as needed.
• A breastfeeding hotline was established that was linked to a RN nurse triage system so that after hours’ calls were routed to a nurse.
• All members received a free breastfeeding video.
• All members were offered to enroll in a breastfeeding class through their regional hospital.

Evaluation Methods

Measures:

• Breastfeeding Percentage
  • All Virginia Premier African American mothers of live births in Richmond & Chesterfield who attempted to breastfeed
  • All Virginia Premier mothers of live births in Richmond City & Chesterfield
• Length of time members breastfeed
• Evaluation of postpartum HEDIS rates

Data Sources:

• Medical Claims
• Medical record reviews
• Case Management System (CCMS)
• Member interviews/assessments

Impact

Moving Foward