DP21-001 The Oklahoma Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS)

Oklahoma Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) Component A Core Surveillance Project Abstract The purpose of the Oklahoma Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) is to collect state-specific, population-based data on maternal and child health (MCH) indicators of high scientific quality that can inform programs and policies related to maternal and infant health. The overall goal of PRAMS is to reduce maternal and infant morbidity and mortality by collecting information that can be used to inform • Maternal and infant health programs • Health policies • Maternal behaviors The CDC began PRAMS in 1987. Oklahoma is one of four original PRAMS sites and is one of only three sites to have continuous data collection for over 30 years. Long Term Objectives Oklahoma PRAMS provides data for a variety of MCH issues. The goal of the study is to reduce the prevalence of maternal and infant morbidity and mortality. PRAMS can accomplish this by providing on-going, state-wide preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum specific data. No other state-wide study focuses on the pregnancy and postpartum experience, making PRAMS a unique and necessary data source for the state. Research Design and Methods PRAMS contacts new mothers two to six months after delivering a live birth. The sample is drawn from the Oklahoma live birth registry. The PRAMS Project utilizes a mixed mode surveillance system, meaning respondents are sent up to three mail survey packets, followed by telephone contact for nonrespondents. Oklahoma stratifies by maternal race, oversampling African American, American Indian and Hispanic mothers. A response rate of 55% in all strata is required in order to weight the data to the annual birth cohort. Mail packets consist of the PRAMS questionnaire and return envelope, an informed consent sheet, a resource directory, an incentive (Mail 1 only), and a reward sheet (listing several items mothers may choose from for completing the survey). Telephone respondents are also offered a choice of rewards. Incentives and rewards are used to maximize participation in the study.