Helping postpartum women connect to primary care

Supporting Transitions to Primary care among Under-resourced, Postpartum women: The STEP-UP

['FUNDING_R01'] · NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY AT CHICAGO · NIH-10637553

This study is looking to help new moms who had pregnancy complications, like gestational diabetes or high blood pressure, get the follow-up care they need by improving communication between their doctors and making it easier for them to access health services, especially for those in underserved communities.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorNORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY AT CHICAGO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CHICAGO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10637553 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research aims to improve the transition of high-risk postpartum women, particularly those from under-resourced communities, to primary care services. It focuses on women who have experienced gestational diabetes or hypertensive disorders during pregnancy, which can lead to long-term health risks. The study will utilize a technology-enabled approach to facilitate better communication and coordination between obstetric and primary care providers. By addressing barriers such as health literacy and access, the research seeks to ensure these women receive the necessary follow-up care.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are postpartum women who have experienced gestational diabetes or hypertensive disorders and come from under-resourced backgrounds.

Not a fit: Patients who are not postpartum or those who have not experienced gestational diabetes or hypertensive disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve health outcomes for postpartum women by ensuring they receive timely and appropriate primary care.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that technology-enabled care coordination can improve health outcomes, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

CHICAGO, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Chronic Disease, chronic disorder, Non-Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus, Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus, Ketosis-Resistant Diabetes Mellitus

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.