Responsive and resilient strategies to reduce high rates of maternal and infant mortality and clinician shortages are needed in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Malawi has some of the highest maternal
and infant mortality rates globally. Group healthcare is a service delivery model that integrates these strategies.
Although primarily implemented during the prenatal period, its potential for improving both maternal and infant
health outcomes during the postpartum period has not been realized. The purpose of this study was to adapt and codesign the prototype for an evidence-based group care model for the postpartum period using a human-centered design approach with key stakeholders in Malawi.
We completed steps of a framework guiding the use of human-centered design: 1) define the problem
and assemble a team; 2) gather information through evidence and inspiration; 3) synthesize; and 4) intervention
design: guiding principles and ideation. Qualitative methods were used to complete steps 2–4. In-depth interviews (n=24), and incubator sessions (n=6) that employed free listing, pile sorting and ranking were completed with key stakeholders. Data analysis consisted of content analysis of interviews and framework analysis for incubator sessions to produce the integrated group postpartum and well-child care model prototype.