Qualitative Evaluation of Individual and Group Well-Child Care

Abstract Objective Individual well care (IWC) is the standard delivery model for well-child care in the United States. Alternative models, such as group well care (GWC), may create opportunities to enhance care for babies. The purpose of this study was to evaluate parents' perceptions of social/wellness benefits and system challenges of IWC and GWC. Methods Since 2014, we have provided both IWC and GWC at an urban academic practice serving a low-income minority community. We conducted a mixed method study involving surveys and 18 focus groups (11 IWC groups, n = 32 parents; 7 GWC groups, n = 33 parents). Parents completed surveys before convening focus group discussions. Survey results were analyzed using independent t tests; focus groups were digitally recorded, transcribed, and analyzed to identify themes. Results Both groups had similar demographics: parents were mostly female (91%) and black (>80%); about half had incomes  Conclusions Parents receiving both models of care identified ways to improve primary care delivery. Given some of the benefits reported by GWC parents, this model may provide the means to enhance resilience in parents and children in low-income communities.