Gabrielle Holden1, Arden L Corter2, Susan Hatters-Friedman1,3, Ian Soosay3. 1. Waitemata District Health Board, Auckland, New Zealand. 2. Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand. 3. University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: Suicide is the leading cause of maternal death in New Zealand particularly amongst Māori and Pacific. We explored current maternal mental health (MMH) screening practices and supports. METHODS: Qualitative research included interviews and focus groups with maternity carers and mothers of Māori and Pacific descent. Thematic analysis used a general inductive approach. RESULTS: Both mothers and carers reported that MMH screening is ad hoc and discussed multilevel barriers that hamper screening and access to supports. CONCLUSION: There are gaps in MMH services, and service improvements need to be targeted at patient, provider, and systems levels.
OBJECTIVES: Suicide is the leading cause of maternal death in New Zealand particularly amongst Māori and Pacific. We explored current maternal mental health (MMH) screening practices and supports. METHODS: Qualitative research included interviews and focus groups with maternity carers and mothers of Māori and Pacific descent. Thematic analysis used a general inductive approach. RESULTS: Both mothers and carers reported that MMH screening is ad hoc and discussed multilevel barriers that hamper screening and access to supports. CONCLUSION: There are gaps in MMH services, and service improvements need to be targeted at patient, provider, and systems levels.