Journal of Women's Health Care
Open Access

VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds MA, United States

Publications

• Research   
  Newborn Outcomes among Veterans Utilizing VHA Maternity Benefits, 2016-2020
  Author(s): Rebecca Kinney*, Laurel A Copeland, Aimee R. Kroll-Desrosiers, Lorrie Walker, Valerie Marteeny and Kristin M Mattock
  
  Background: Public Law (PL) 111-163 Section 206 of the Caregivers and Veteran Omnibus Health Services Act amended the Veterans Health Administration’s (VHA) medical benefits package to include seven days of medical care for newborns delivered by Veterans. We examined the newborn outcomes among a cohort of women Veterans receiving VHA maternity benefits and care coordination. Methods: We conducted a secondary analysis of phone interview data from Veterans enrolled in the COMFORT (Center for Maternal and Infant Outcomes Research in Translation) study 2016-2020. Multivariable regression estimated associations with newborn outcomes (preterm birth; low birthweight). Results: During the study period, 829 infants were born to 811 Veterans. Mothers reported “excellent health” for 94% of infants. Low birth weight (less 5.8 pounds) affected 9%; 11% were pre.. View More»
  

  Abstract HTML PDF