Newborn program reduces NICU days
A comprehensive maternal-newborn program developed by Mid-Atlantic Medical Services (MAMSI) of Rockville, MD, in partnership with Matria Healthcare of Marietta, GA, contributed to improved birth outcomes and the reduced need for neonatal intensive care (NICU) services, according to MAMSI’s executive vice president and medical director.
Vera Dvorak, MD, reports that in 1995, the "Timely Tots" program helped the plan achieve an 11% decrease in the number of NICU days required compared to the preceding year. Nearly 90,000 Medicaid patients are included in MAMSI’s membership, representing a population that often experiences more complications during pregnancy due to socioeconomic disadvantages and related health problems.
MAMSI’s continuum of care program is based on risk assessment and education with specific care pathways for high-risk mothers. All participants have 24-hour access to perinatal nurses. These clinical services are provided by Matria, a national provider of prenatal care programs and high-risk obstetrical care services.
In 1994, the first year of program implementation, MAMSI achieved a 12% reduction in NICU admissions. Dvorak says a further reduction of 11% in 1995 was a significant accomplishment, considering that enrollment increased over 23% by year-end 1995.
Participants in MAMSI’s "Timely Tots" program were asked to complete a detailed survey to determine their satisfaction with the program. Ninety-eight percent of the respondents gave a high rating for the educational value and quality of the program and perinatal nursing support services, and 99% said they recommended the program to other pregnant women.
MAMSI is a managed care company covering nearly 1.7 million lives throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.
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