Researchers: Rena Bina¹, Mira Honovich², Daphna Levinson², Yona Ferber²

Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) affects about 20% of women. In 2013 a universal screening program for PPD was implemented in Israeli Tipat Chalav clinics. Tipat Chalav public health nurses (TCN) screen for PPD, provide support, and refer women for treatment (hereafter the "Program").

Objectives: To examine TCNs' perceived preparedness to implement the Program, and the relationships between personal resources, external resources and barriers, and TCNs' perceived preparedness.

Method: Part 1: In-depth interviews with 20 TCNs and 10 supervisors.
Part 2: Questionnaires, received from 219 Ministry of Health TCNs, regarding personal and external resources, barriers and perceived preparedness.

Findings: Part 1: TCNs noted the importance of training, routine supervision and support, and reported time, skill and population barriers.
Part 2: TCNs' perceived preparedness to provide emotional support was lower than their perceived preparedness to screen or refer. Training, knowledge, attitudes, confidence, colleagues' perceived preparedness and being older explain higher perceived preparedness. Time, skill and population barriers explain lower perceived preparedness.

Recommendations: Enhancing TCNs perceived preparedness to provide emotional support is of the essence for the success of the Program. This should be done through ongoing training and supervision.

Research end date: 07/2017