The Enhanced Maternal and Child Health nursing program in Victoria: a cross-sectional study of clinical practice

• DOI: 10.1071/py18156
• Publication Date: 2019-06-18T05:13:19Z
• Authors: Catina Adams; Leesa Hooker; Angela Taft
• Keywords: Disadvantaged; Population Health

The Maternal and Child Health (MCH) service in Victoria comprises a universal service, an enhanced program providing additional support for vulnerable families (EMCH) 24-h MCH telephone line. There is anecdotal evidence of variation EMCH programs between Local Government Areas, this study aims to explore the inform future policy practice. An online survey was sent coordinators December 2016 (n = 79), with response rate 70% (55/79). Quantitative data have been analysed using descriptive statistics, open-ended questions examined content analysis. confirms that vary significantly across state. Differences include referral intake criteria, different models modes delivery, differences nurse working conditions, issues collection lack systematic clinical tools. Variation greatest urban rural services advantaged disadvantaged councils. Lack consistent delivery impairs evaluation, including outcome measurement effectiveness.