Exploring Infant Mortality Drivers in Alachua County Florida: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Infant mortality serves as a major health indicator for both developed and developing countries. Currently, Alachua County, Florida carries an infant mortality rate over a third greater than the Florida state average rate, with the African American infant mortality rate being over double the Florida state average rate. This study explores expert attitudes and opinions of those working in the field of maternal/infant health and related fields through in-depth interviews conducted via zoom/by phone. By method of qualitative content analysis, major themes were identified by researchers regarding the drivers of infant mortality, solutions/barriers to solutions, and racial inequalities. Themes were then compared among different types of participants (physicians, educators, and community workers) to identify similar/dissimilar perceptions based on occupation. Significant findings indicate the following themes of racial disparities, preterm birth, healthcare access, insurance coverage/income inequality, and lifestyle factors regarding the drivers of infant mortality. Other major themes were identified for solutions/barriers to solutions and racial inequalities. Our findings indicate issues pertaining to Alachua County itself, such as healthcare access, along with societal issues such as the U.S. healthcare system and healthcare inequities experienced by minority groups.