The Importance of the Postpartum Visit - Community First Health Plans.

The Importance of the Postpartum Visit
Timely postpartum care is an important component of successful health outcomes for women after
giving birth as well as a measure of quality care. The postpartum visit is just as important as prenatal
care, yet according to Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) 2011®, CFHP’s
commercial rate for post-partum care was 81% 1 compared to 90% 2 for timeliness of prenatal care 2.
Since the period immediately following birth is a time of many physical and emotional adjustments, the
postpartum visit is important for educating new mothers on what to expect during this period and
address any concerns which may arise. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
recommends that women see a health care provider at least once between four and six weeks after
giving birth to address the following topics.
Complications that occurred during pregnancy
Underlying medical conditions
Health of the infant
Breastfeeding
Maternal / Infant bonding
Sexual activity and plans for contraception
A comprehensive exam is part of the postpartum visit and should include:
Interim history
Physical exam to include a breast and pelvic examination
Pap Smear as indicated. If deferred, documentation reflects rationale and plan for
scheduling a comprehensive well woman exam
Measurement of weight
Measurement of vital signs to include blood pressure
Family planning and contraceptive options
Education on STD prevention and screening as indicated
Assessment for postpartum depression
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The post-partum visit is also an opportunity to review and/or schedule follow-up tests and exams as well
as educate the patient on the importance of routine preventive health maintenance to support any
future pregnancy outcomes.
Tips for improving compliance with postpartum visits:
Stress the importance of postpartum care during prenatal visits.
Schedule the postpartum visit prior to discharge from the hospital.
Provide an appointment reminder via a phone call or postcard.
Encourage patients to schedule a postpartum visit prior to requesting clearance to return
to work.
Encourage patients to schedule a postpartum visit prior to requesting a prescription for
contraceptives.
In addition to monitoring HEDIS rates, CFHP’s Quality Management Department routinely reviews
records of providers of obstetrical services for adherence to CFHP’s OB/Gyn Documentation Guidelines,
which include requirements specific to the postpartum visit as outlined above. CFHP’s complete OB/Gyn
Documentation Guidelines are available in the Provider Manual or on the CFHP website at
http://www.cfhp.com.
1
The percentage of deliveries that had a postpartum visit on or between 21 days and 56 days after delivery.
2 The percentage of deliveries that received a prenatal care visit in the first trimester or within 42 days of enrollment.
References:
1. American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Guidelines
for Perinatal Care (6th Edition). October 2010
2. WHO Technical Consultation on Postpartum and Postnatal Care 2010
http://whqlibdoc.who.int/hq/2010/WHO_MPS_10.03_eng.pdf
Keeping our commitment to you
(210) 227-2347 • Toll-Free 1-800-343-2347• Fax (210) 358-6014 • 12238 Silicon Drive, Suite 100 • San Antonio, Texas 78249 • www.cfhp.com