| Description |
Purpose: This needs assessment evaluated the feasibility and usability of implementing a paternal postnatal depression (PPND) screening and referral protocol within an obstetrics clinic at a suburban community hospital in Riverton, Utah. Background: PPND symptoms affect up to 10% of fathers in the U.S., with the risk rising 25-50% for fathers whose partners suffer from PPND. Up to 18% also develop clinically significant anxiety. Untreated PPND leads to increased clinical encounters, hospitalizations, and family burden. Obstetric providers, though central to maternal and family care, often lack training and resources to identify or refer fathers experiencing mental health challenges. Local Problem: At a suburban community hospital in Riverton, Utah, obstetric providers do not routinely screen fathers for mental health concerns or follow a systematic referral pathway. Methods: Guided by the Johns Hopkins Evidence-Based Practice Model, this needs assessment evaluated existing protocols, tools, and practices for addressing fathers' mental health. Structured discussions, surveys, and patient-provider observations identified gaps in care and opportunities for improvement. Stakeholder engagement explored barriers and facilitators to implementation. Evidence-based screenings were assessed for usability in clinical workflow. Educational reference guides were developed to support providers in referring fathers to resources. A Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats (SWOT) analysis evaluated feasibility, usability, and stakeholder satisfaction with proposed practice changes. Assessment: Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Key themes included provider awareness, resource availability, and workflow integration, which informed recommendations for systematic screening and referral practices. Conclusions: This assessment highlights the need for PPND screening and referral, with providers demonstrating increased awareness and readiness. The SWOT analysis supported the development of tailored, evidence-based practice changes. Identified barriers included provider knowledge gaps, workflow hesitations, and limited access to partners at postpartum visits. Findings advocate for integrating paternal screening into postpartum care, influencing policy changes, and promoting family-centered mental health care. Further research should refine screening tools and explore non-traditional parent partnerships to enhance inclusivity. |
