The Illinois Chapter of the March of Dimes is conducting a CenteringPregnancy® initiative at 11 prenatal care sites in 2009 (see document detailing the sites below).  We are requesting proposals from experienced perinatal researchers to conduct an evaluation of this initiative that includes:
1) Obtaining data from a comparison group;
2) Obtaining all necessary IRB approvals;
3) Ensuring that each site and comparison site use a nationally-developed framework, forms, guidance and pilot database to collect data (see document that provides a chart for variables below);
4) Providing training and technical assistance to sites and comparison sites on collecting, abstracting and reporting data;
5) Providing feedback to a March of Dimes national consultant throughout the initiative on issues and concerns;
6) Analyzing Illinois data; and
7) Writing an evaluation report of the Illinois Chapter initiative.

The successful proposal will demonstrate direct experience with the CenteringPregnancy® model of group prenatal care and a reputation for solid perinatal research and publication.  The proposal should include a general (not detailed) timeline for project completion and a total cost not to exceed $40,000.  The proposal should include a schedule for deliverables and payment. 

Upon selection of the Illinois consultant, the March of Dimes national consultant and the Illinois consultant will develop a joint detailed timeline for the project, including deliverables upon which both contracts will be based. 

Proposals for the Illinois evaluation should be no longer than 2 pages and must be received by Wednesday, April 22, 2009.  Proposals should be sent via email to Janet Shephard at jshephard@marchofdimes.com.