Needs Assessment: Expanding Perinatal Psychiatry Access Programs to Support Infant Care Professionals and Postpartum Individuals

Background The Perinatal Psychiatry Access Program model (i.e., Access Program) aims to address mental health (MH) inequities among pregnant and postpartum individuals by providing MH training and support to perinatal care professionals. Despite program expansion, perinatal MH and substance use disorders (SUDs) remain significant contributors to postpartum maternal mortality. Collaborating with infant care professionals may enhance detection and access to MH/SUD treatment. This needs assessment explored infant care professionals’ interest in recognizing and responding to the MH/SUD needs of pregnant and postpartum individuals and assessed the degree to which the statewide Massachusetts Child Psychiatry Access Program for Moms (MCPAP for Moms), could meet the needs of these professionals. Methods We conducted four focus groups (n = 33) and 20 interviews (n = 22) with public health professionals, MCPAP for Moms staff, and child-focused professionals. Sessions were transcribed and coded using iterative thematic analysis. Results Although most infant care professionals expressed interest in perinatal MH/SUDs, this interest varied based on their recognition of parental MH as within their purview. Training and systematic support for perinatal MH/SUDs was not common in infant care settings. Conclusions These findings highlight infant care professionals' interest in supporting postpartum individuals with perinatal MH/SUDs as well as the need for an increased prioritization of workforce development to serve the infant care system and ultimately improve the lives of families. Hiring additional staff, including a liaison from the early childhood community, and leveraging existing networks to improve consultation, resource referrals, and communication with infant care professionals is recommended.