Abstract
Introduction
Multiple studies have demonstrated improved perinatal outcomes for group prenatal care (GPC) when compared to traditional prenatal care. Benefits of GPC include lower rates of prematurity and low birth weight, fewer cesarean deliveries, improved breastfeeding outcomes and improved maternal satisfaction with care. However, the outpatient financial costs of running a GPC program are not well established.
Methods
This study involved the creation of a financial model that forecasted costs and revenues for prenatal care groups with various numbers of participants based on numerous variables, including patient population, payor mix, patient show rates, staffing mix, supply usage and overhead costs. The model was developed for use in an urban underserved practice.
Results
Adjusted revenue per pregnancy in this model was found to be $989.93 for traditional care and $1080.69 for GPC. Cost neutrality for GPC was achieved when each group enrolled an average of 10.652 women with an enriched staffing model or 4.801 women when groups were staffed by a single nurse and single clinician.
Conclusions
Mathematical cost-benefit modeling in an urban underserved practice demonstrated that GPC can be not only financially sustainable but possibly a net income generator for the outpatient clinic. Use of this model could offer maternity care practices an important tool for demonstrating the financial practicality of GPC.
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Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank Mike Weidner, Sam Ogie, and Heidi Tribunella of the Simon School of Business for their assistance and support and Emily Barrett for her helpful comments and suggestions. Genesee Valley Medical Foundation generously provided the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology start-up funds for offering group prenatal care. Healthy Baby Network of Monroe County has since provided a Healthy Start grant to fund facilitator training and the pathway to CenteringPregnancy® certification. We are deeply grateful to the staff, providers, and nurses for sharing their time, insights, and help in completing this work and to all the women who participated in group prenatal care at Women’s Health Practice.
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Rowley, R.A., Phillips, L.E., O’Dell, L. et al. Group Prenatal Care: A Financial Perspective. Matern Child Health J 20, 1–10 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10995-015-1802-2
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10995-015-1802-2