Celebrating A Research Publication

We are delighted to announce the publication of a recent collaborative research effort between Cincinnati Children's and Design Impact. This peer-researcher-led qualitative study, titled “When You Look at This Chart, That Is Not My Whole Life”: Caregiver Perspectives to Inform Improved Primary Care Practice and Outcomes, is now available in the Journal of Primary Care & Community Health.

The publication marks a significant milestone in ongoing efforts to improve healthcare outcomes for infants and mothers, particularly in under-resourced communities. The study's findings emphasize the critical role of trust, empathy, and strong patient-practitioner relationships in healthcare delivery.

Cincinnati Children’s and Design Impact staff interviewed 10 caregivers in Cincinnati, OH, using community peer researchers. Most caregivers were Black, and all had children on Medicaid. Infant Well Child Visits offer preventive care opportunities, but many infants, especially from low-income and Black families, miss these visits. The interviews revealed the importance of trust, empathy, and strong patient-practitioner relationships. Mistrust, exacerbated by racial discordance with medical providers, was a significant barrier to care. Caregivers often relied on family and community advice and cited racism and feeling judged as obstacles to seeking care.

The team of Cincinnati Children’s and Design Impact researchers concluded that community-informed interventions are essential. While material resources are important, their findings highlight the critical role of interpersonal relationships and social-emotional support.

The collaboration between Cincinnati Children's and Design Impact has been instrumental in bringing forward the authentic voices of caregivers, ensuring that their perspectives guide improvement efforts. You can read the full article here.