BRIEF REPORT
Danielle A. Jean, MD; Jasmine A. Tzeggai, MD; Katherine J. Gold, MD, MSW, MS
Corresponding Author: Katherine J. Gold, MD, MSW, MS. Department of Family Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan
Email: ktgold@umich.edu
DOI: 10.3122/jabfm.2024.240128R4
Keywords: African Americans, Ambulatory Care Facilities, Faith-Based Organizations, Interpersonal Relations, Minority Health, Pregnancy, Prenatal Care, Qualitative Research
Dates: Submitted: 03-22-2024; Revised: 04-16-2024; 02-12-2025; 04-01-2025; 05-09-2025; Accepted: 05-27-2025
Status: In production.
INTRODUCTION: Black women in the United States face numerous barriers accessing high quality prenatal care. We sought to understand the experience of Black women getting prenatal care in a free faith-based medical clinic and to explore their experiences with staff and clinicians at the clinic.
METHODS: From August 2022-January 2023, we conducted qualitative interviews with 14 Black women. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded by 2 researchers. After coding, researchers identified emerging themes through standard qualitative methods. The study was IRB reviewed and approved.
RESULTS: Patients identified meaningful relationships with clinic staff; the impact of a faith-based institution; the complicated relationships with providers; and the value of wrap-around services as key aspects of care.
CONCLUSIONS: This study highlighted the importance of interpersonal relationships and building trust. Findings support prior research showing Black women’s’ preference for race- and gender-concordant prenatal care and this being an important contributor to trust.