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Pioneering Prenatal Program for Refugee Families in Texas

In the heart of San Antonio, CommuniCare Health Centers are beacons of hope for those who have fled their homes in search of safety. Refugees often experience confusion and stress, affecting their overall health and access to necessary care. Ready and willing to help, CommuniCare offers support to those who find themselves in challenging circumstances miles away from their homes and families. 

CommuniCare is no stranger to meeting patients' cultural and language needs. The health center provides care to more than 110,000 patients, most of whom belong to racial or ethnic minority groups. 

Last year, CommuniCare started a new prenatal program for the growing Afghan community with funding from HRSA's Quality Improvement Fund-Maternal Health award. CommuniCare used the funding to create a new model—Group Prenatal Care—to make maternal healthcare more accessible for prenatal patients from minority groups. 

Since 2021, CommuniCare has seen an increase in Afghan prenatal patients and developed the program to tailor services that address the unique needs of Afghan mothers-to-be.  Dr. Nichole Van de Putte, Director of Obstetrics & Gynecology, said staff recognized the need for a group prenatal care program early on. 

The health center hired Pashto-speaking staff and developed educational materials in Pashto to ensure that language is not a barrier to receiving quality prenatal and postpartum care. 

"Through this program, the women have found a new sense of community among each other and truly value the time they can spend together," Van de Putte said.  The classes have become a safe space for participants, she added. 

The patients previously did not know how to discuss their concerns, receive advice from healthcare professionals, or build a supportive network. “It’s humbling to see these inspiring women engaged, serve as advocates for each other, and form meaningful relationships,” says Dr. Van de Putte. CommuniCare staff hopes to significantly improve their patients' overall health during and after pregnancy through this program. 

CommuniCare asked patients to evaluate the program.  Positive responses led the staff to extend the group-based approach to postpartum care. The first postpartum group session with new parents and their newborns was a success.  It allowed for follow-up, blood pressure testing, and postpartum depression screening for the mom, as well as a pediatrician visit for the baby or education and support to address the needs of newborns. CommuniCare expects continuing group support after childbirth will keep participants connected and improve their mental well-being.