Table 3.

Common Themes Identified from a Review of the Literature

Theme	Categories	Sources
Barriers to care	Rural population that is geographically isolated Lack of public transportation Financial constraints with traveling for equitable care	12,17–19,21
Mobile health clinics	Mobile prenatal care improving equity and access Reduction in infant mortality rates Improved neonatal outcomes	12,18,21
Collaborative or tiered models of care	Shared care involving physicians, NPs, obstetricians and gynecologists, perinatologists, and other specialists (as required) Tiered model to promote each level of provider to work to their full scope of practice	11,15,17,22
Telemedicine	Provide/receive medical care through telephone or videoconference Cost-efficient and convenient for rural populations “Virtual Visit” prenatal program	16,17
NP as an essential primary care provider	Longer appointment times Nursing background and values incorporated into care Promote provider–patient therapeutic relationship Consistent care	19,20,22