Statewide Implementation of Virtual Perinatal Home Visiting During COVID-19
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Statewide Implementation of Virtual Perinatal Home Visiting During COVID‑19 Jennifer Marshall1 · Laura Kihlström1 · Acadia Buro1 · Vidya Chandran1 · Concha Prieto1 · Rafaella Stein‑Elger1 · Keryden Koeut‑Futch1 · Allison Parish2 · Katie Hood2
© Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature 2020
Abstract Purpose This evaluation describes efforts taken by MIECHV administrators and staff during the pandemic using data collected from 60 MIECHV staff surveys and nine statewide weekly focus groups. Description The Florida Maternal, Infant and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Initiative funds perinatal home visiting for pregnant women and families with infants throughout the state. Florida MIECHV has shown resilience to disasters and times of crises in the past, while generating a culture of adaptation and continuous quality improvement among local implementing agencies. Florida MIECHV responded to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis within the first few days of the first reported case in Florida by providing guidance on virtual home visits and working remotely. Assessment Findings highlight the role of administrative leadership and communication, staff willingness/morale, logistical considerations, and the needs of enrolled families who face hardships during the pandemic such as job loss, limited supplies, food insecurity, technology limitations, and stress. Home visitors support enrolled families by connecting them with resources, providing public health education and delivering evidence-based home visiting curricula virtually. They also recognized the emotional burden surrounding COVID-19 impacts and uncertainties along with achieving work-life balance by caring for their own children. Conclusion This evaluation helped in understanding the impact of the pandemic on this maternal and child health program and fundamentals of transition to virtual home visiting services. Virtual home visiting appears to be feasible and provides an essential connection to supports for families who may not otherwise have the means or knowledge to access them. Keywords COVID-19 pandemic · MIECHV · Virtual home visiting
Significance This paper describes statewide implementation of virtual perinatal home visiting in high-risk communities and staff adaptations to working remotely. Home visiting staff report on their transition to working from home and on the needs of enrolled families. Administrative supports and processes * Jennifer Marshall [email protected] 1
University of South Florida College of Public Health, Chiles Center, 13201 Bruce B Downs Blvd, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
Florida Maternal, Infant and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program, Florida Association of Healthy Start Coalitions, 2002 Old St. Augustine Road, Suite E‑45, Tallahassee, FL 32301, USA
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are also described. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, and social and economic consequences of the pandemic unfold, findings will be used to plan further efforts to support MIECHV staff and their clients.
Introduction The Maternal, Inf
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