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Improving WIC Retention in Vermont: Beneficiary attitudes toward co-location in medical homes
Chang, Lillian Fu, Eunice Pichiotino, Erin Taylor, Sasha Till, Brian Triano, Amy Whittier, John Bister, Donna Whitson, Jenna Howe, Allison K.
Chang, Lillian
Fu, Eunice
Pichiotino, Erin
Taylor, Sasha
Till, Brian
Triano, Amy
Whittier, John
Bister, Donna
Whitson, Jenna
Howe, Allison K.
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Abstract
Introduction: The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is a national program aimed at improving the nutrition and health of pregnant women and children. Those eligible for Vermont WIC include anyone pregnant or with children under 5 that has an income below 185% of federal poverty level or is enrolled in Vermont Medicaid. WIC has been shown to improve birth outcomes1, breast feeding rates2, infant growth and development, and consumption of important nutrients. Those enrolled in WIC report high levels of satisfaction Despite the benefits of WIC, retention rates of eligible families remain low. Studies have shown that mandatory bi-annual recertification appointments pose logistical problems. Rescheduling missed appointments and long waiting times at the WIC offices were also barriers. Other states have found that integration of WIC recertification appointments with the family’s primary care medical visits may improve retention. A limited scale co-localization of WIC and the medical home in Vermont showed some promise.
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Date
2015-01-21