Development and Validation of an Algorithm to Identify Prenatal Care in Administrative Data: Predictive Validity for Adverse Birth Outcomes

This study developed and validated a claims-based algorithm to identify PNC utilization in South Carolina Medicaid data. Predictive validity tests revealed that predominant provider status was associated with reduced adverse birth outcomes, suggesting care continuity may improve perinatal health. Future research could apply this algorithm to examine causal relationships between predominant provider status and specific outcomes (e.g., preterm birth, low birth weight), while accounting for institutional and socioeconomic confounders. These findings offer a foundation for optimizing PNC delivery through continuity-focused interventions.