Work

Childbirth and parenting education via telehealth: A two-phased cross-sectional exploration of rural and remote stakeholders’ perceptions and experiences

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: PROBLEM: Globally, health services have transitioned to deliver childbirth and parenting education (CPE) via telehealth, with limited understanding of the impact of these changes. BACKGROUND: CPE is important for preparing prospective parents for birth and the immediate postnatal period. Access to education can be challenging for those living in rural and remote areas. AIM: This study aimed to explore rural and remote consumers' and clinicians' experiences and perspectives of using, accessing or providing CPE via telehealth. METHODS: A two-phased cross-sectional study conducted via online survey, followed by 1:1 online interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics; qualitative data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. FINDINGS: A total n = 279 survey participants responded. Half (49.6 %) would have preferred face-to-face education, 40 % would not have accessed CPE if telehealth modality was not available. A quarter of women (25.6 %) reported saving > $500. Most clinicians (73 %) reported telehealth classes supported workload management. In total, 21 interviews were conducted, three main themes were identified i) Using telehealth for CPE Program, ii) Course content and iii) Intersection with the health service. DISCUSSION: Findings support the continuation of telehealth CPE classes, with hybrid availability where possible. Further research is warranted on the value of CPE expressed more strongly by multiparas over primiparas. Further research on the important role of telehealth enabling inclusion of fathers and partners is warranted. CONCLUSION: Recognising that many still prefer face-to-face education; service providers and policy makers can have confidence in the supportive nature of telehealth CPE for key stakeholders.

Source: Women and Birth

DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2025.101901