Patient Perceived Value of Referral to Maternal and Fetal Medicine Subspecialists [25M]

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality is a national and public health concern. One of the most critical factors to quality maternal fetal care for high-risk pregnancies is access to specialty tertiary care. Our center serves 25. This study assessed patient satisfaction of high-risk pregnancies referred for consultation to the High-Risk Pregnancy Services at a tertiary care center in the US. METHODS: Prospective pre and post surveys were administered to pregnant women referred to the High-Risk antenatal clinics. This study was IRB approved. All patients consented to participate in this study. RESULTS: 50 women completed the pre-visit and post-visit surveys. The average GA at referral was 21 3/7 weeks. The wait time for scheduled appointment from the initial referral was 2.5 weeks. Patients traveled 57.5 ± 32.3 minutes. 45% of the patients reported not understanding the reason for referral. 60% expressed a desire to see a physician after completion of their ultrasound. On post-visit survey, patient’s perceived anxiety was significantly reduced (P=.007). In 16% the ultrasound findings were different from the local findings. 88% of patients indicated a better understanding of pregnancy issues as well as management of their pregnancy. 67.5% rated their overall satisfaction as excellent, 25% as good and 1% as fair. CONCLUSION: Not all referred women fully understand the role of a maternal fetal specialist, nonetheless, following the referral appointment and consultation, majority expressed better understanding and felt reassured regarding their pregnancy care. This survey indicates a need for and easy availability of maternal fetal expertise to all pregnant women.