Abstract
Title: Bridging the Gap: Transforming Maternal Healthcare for Rural Utah’s Future with FQHC-Driven Solutions
Background: In rural Utah, long travel distances, high costs, and a lack of providers create significant hurdles to maternal healthcare. To help address these challenges, Utah’s Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) provide primary and preventive health care, including maternal care. Twenty-six FQHCs operate across 13 of Utah’s 23 rural counties, serving approximately 7.7% of rural Utah residents. An assessment of rural FQHC needs was conducted to inform opportunities for care improvement.
Methods: This study employed a mixed-method approach. An assessment of FQHC maternal health needs was conducted in 2025 by an emailed survey. Supplemental qualitative data regarding maternal health challenges and opportunities were collected through interviews with maternal health providers (OB/GYNs, certified nurse-midwives, family physicians, and doulas), educators from local Universities, health organizations, public health officials, policymakers, and community-based organizations.
Results: Key Findings and Data: Twenty-three responses representing 25 FQHCs were obtained in the needs assessment survey, and all but one rural organization were represented. 65% of rural clinics provide delivery services, 80% provide prenatal care, and 90% provide postpartum care. Only 50% reported perinatal mental health services. Highest needs reported included reimbursement for maternal health services (2.2/3; Likert Scale 1-3), oral health for pregnant patients (2.0), and perinatal mental health (2.0). Qualitative interview themes included maternal mental health needs, long travel distances to health centers, workforce recruitment and retention gaps, and basic social needs as most critical. Recommended actions included reducing mental health stigma, advocating for Medicaid and insurance reimbursement, expanding telehealth, developing ‘grow-your-own’ workforce pipelines, and offering financial incentives to attract and retain local providers.
Discussion/Conclusion: The results highlight areas where FQHCs and others can take action to improve maternal healthcare. Implementing recommendations such as expanding telehealth, developing the workforce, and advocating for Medicaid may significantly improve equitable, sustainable care in underserved areas.
Contact
Benedicta Kwakye-Andoh, MPH, CNM
Provo, Utah
