The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped many aspects of healthcare delivery, including maternal and child health programs. One significant adaptation has been the shift to virtual home visits (VHV), which have become a vital tool for continuing essential services while ensuring safety. A recent study titled Virtual home visits during COVID-19 pandemic: mothers’ and home visitors’ perspectives offers valuable insights into the experiences of mothers and home visitors with VHV, providing guidance for future implementation.
The Shift to Virtual Home Visits
The transition from in-person home visiting (IPHV) to VHV was driven by the need to maintain safety during the pandemic. While both mothers and home visitors recognize the necessity of IPHV for comprehensive assessments and building relationships, VHV has proven to be a valuable supplement. The study highlights that video conferencing is preferred over audio-only calls, as it allows for some degree of assessment and interaction.
Benefits of In-Person Home Visits
- Comprehensive Assessments: IPHV allows for thorough evaluations of developmental milestones, child growth, and the family environment.
- Building Relationships: Face-to-face interactions foster trust and open communication, essential for addressing sensitive issues like domestic violence.
- Social Support: Home visitors often become part of the family support system, providing emotional and social support beyond material needs.
The Role of Virtual Home Visits
Despite the clear benefits of IPHV, VHV offers flexibility for busy mothers who may find it challenging to accommodate in-person visits. The study suggests that with proper training on virtual assessments, VHV could become more effective in evaluating developmental milestones. Moreover, VHV can be particularly useful when immediate support is needed but an in-person visit is not feasible.
Challenges and Considerations
The study also identifies challenges associated with VHV, such as difficulties in building relationships and conducting comprehensive assessments. For families with intellectual disabilities or those experiencing domestic violence, IPHV remains crucial. Additionally, while technology barriers have decreased over time, ensuring access to reliable internet remains important.
Future Directions
The insights from this study encourage practitioners to enhance their skills in conducting VHVs effectively. Training on virtual assessment techniques and understanding the unique needs of families can optimize the use of VHVs. As we move forward, integrating VHVs as a complement to IPHVs can ensure that maternal and child health programs remain resilient and adaptable.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Virtual home visits during COVID-19 pandemic: mothers’ and home visitors’ perspectives.
