Challenges Related to Pregnancy and Returning to Work After Childbirth in a Rural, Tourism-Dependent Community

Date
02/2018
Description

This case study arose out of a site visit related to research on closure of hospital-based obstetric services in rural communities. Participants in a focus group highlighted that—beyond obstetric services access—they faced challenges related to pregnancy and returning to work after childbirth in their community, a rural area that is heavily reliant on tourism and recreation for economic vitality. Beyond describing issues they face, participants offered suggestions for potential policies and programs that would improve their capacity to successfully navigate employment and family life in their community.

Center
University of Minnesota Rural Health Research Center
Authors
Amanda Corbett, Carrie Henning-Smith, Kristin DeArruda Wharton, Katy Kozhimannil