To explore group service provision, we studied seven programs offering group services to pregnant and parenting women in Washington State. Key program characteristics were identified through interviews and written surveys with group facilitators and program managers. Findings are presented here and serve as a resource for program managers and providers who may seek to offer services to pregnant and parenting women in a group setting. Offering services in a group setting instead of one-on-one has the potential to lower per client costs, improve patient outcomes, and increase patient social support. Groups where leaders use common strategies are the most successful—these are groups with regular attendance, relevant and client-centered curricula, and the potential to be self-sustaining. Even more important, successful groups provide the benefits of social support to promote and reinforce healthy behaviors, socialization and personal development, education and information.
