Postpartum depression (PPD) is the most underdiagnosed obstetric complication in the United States. Left undiagnosed and untreated, PPD can have lasting effects on the infant and the mother. A quality improvement project was conducted to improve rates of screening and referrals with postpartum Latinx immigrant mothers. Community health workers were designated to assist with PPD screening and referral for behavioral health services, at a pediatric patient-centered medical home, using a referral process algorithm (Byatt, N., Biebel, K. & Straus, J. Postpartum Depression Screening Algorithm for Pediatric Providers During Well-Child Visits, MCPAP for Moms: Promoting maternal mental health during and after pregnancy, N/A (2014)). Using chi analysis of pre and post implementation findings, results demonstrated a 21% increase in screening of eligible postpartum mothers. Referrals for behavioral health services also increased from 9 to 22% of patients that screened positive. Community Health Workers were an asset in increasing screening and referral practices for PPD in a Latinx immigrant population. Further research efforts will assist to remove further barriers to PPD screening and treatment.
Prevalence, determinants, and effects of food insecurity among Middle Eastern and North African migrants and refugees in high-income countries: A systematic review
Issues related to poverty and income inequality in high-income countries have led to food insecurity among some population groups, such as migrants and refugees. While there are some studies on the experience of some migrant groups (and other subpopulations), little is known about food security among Middle Eastern and African migrants and refugees. This systematic…