Improving adolescent pregnancy outcomes and maternal health:a case study of comprehensive case managed services.
Our findings indicate how health outcomes regarding adolescent pregnancy and maternal and infant health care are intertwined with a case management process that fosters measures that are social in nature-the provision of direct services, as well as the encouragement of informal social supports systems. They also show how case managed services in a small, nongovernmental organization (NGO) with a strong commitment to its clients may provide the spontaneity and caring which results in a "match" between client needs and the delivery of services-and positive outcomes for pregnant women, early maternal health and infant health. The delivery of such case managed services in a manner which is intensive, comprehensive, flexible and integrated contributes significantly to such improved health outcomes.
Bowman
Elizabeth K
EK
Army Research Laboratories, Aberdeen Proving Grounds, Aberdeen, MD, USA. ebowman@arl.army.mil
Palley
Howard A
HA
D000293:Adolescent; D019090:Case Management; D003191:Comprehensive Health Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008427:Maternal Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D019982:Organizational Case Studies; D011247:Pregnancy; D011256:Pregnancy Outcome; D011253:Pregnancy in Adolescence; D011634:Public Health; D012944:Social Support; D014481:United States