Presenting the 'Supported Mothers, Stronger Futures' service model to the Acacia Ridge community
In mid-2016, we were engaged by Acacia Ridge Community Support Inc (ARCSI) to co-design a service model of community-based antenatal care coordination for the Acacia Ridge and nearby communities.
A few weeks ago, we proudly presented the findings of this service design process at a workshop led by ARCSI and attended by a range of interested stakeholders, including community sector organisations, service providers, funders and members of the local community.
Our aim was to summarise the extensive evidence base available around what works and position this within the context and priorities of the local community. We are confident that this piece of work will ensure that a future service model is evidence-informed and is able to present a compelling case for change to potential funders. It was pleasing to see the early signs of commitment towards collaborating and partnering across several organisations in taking this important initiative from concept to reality.
Elliot in action presenting the service model to the group
Our approach to service design consisted of four components...
Evidence review
Community consultation
Population health profile
Service mapping
The key findings from our approach were:
'epigenetics', 'fetal programming', 'fetal origins of disease' and 'Barker's Hypothesis' are common terms used to describe the process of environmental factors influencing the physiological development of the unborn child
these factors can predict early indicators of poor health and disadvantage across the lifecourse (e.g. learning difficulties, employment, illness, unemployment)
a number of holistic strategies are supported by evidence to improve maternal health, fetal development and birth outcomes
those strategies that are based around a woman's circumstances and aim to improve the social determinants of health (e.g. nutrition, housing, financial security, social support)
barriers often exist in getting services to women that really need them
the ideal service model embeds care coordination and service delivery within a woman's local community to alleviate barriers
care coordination, assertive outreach, risk stratification, outcomes evaluation and collective impact are important elements of any service model
investment in community-based antenatal care can save a lifetime of costs borne by health, child protection, early education, corrective services and welfare agencies.
A visual overview of the proposed 'Supported Mothers, Stronger Futures' service model.
While there is still much work to do to see this service become a reality, kudos should go to Trish Cattermole and her team at ARCSI for not only seeking to build a successful service model from the ground up but also in demonstrating a commitment to partnering with other organisations and 'joining the dots' between local providers. ARCSI is a progressive community organisation striving to improve the lives of people within their local area. If you or your organisation has an interest in being involved in this project as it progresses, please get in touch with the team via email at admin@arcsi.org.au.
Also, a few shout outs to the Queensland Government Department of Education and Training for their much-valued investment in this service design work, and to United Way for supporting the facilitation of last week's workshop.