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PRAMS Background

PRAMS was developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 1987. Washington PRAMS began to collect data in June of 1993. The PRAMS survey asks about topics related to risk factors before and during pregnancy and infancy, access to prenatal and children's health care, and content of prenatal care.

Washington PRAMS collects data through a statewide mailing of the survey. The PRAMS survey is sent to new mothers two to six months after they deliver their babies. Telephone follow-up is done for those who do not respond to the mailing. The mail and telephone surveys are available in English and Spanish.

In Washington, about 1,800 surveys are sent to participants each year. Participants are drawn from birth certificate data using a random sample based on race and ethnicity. (About one in forty mothers). The sample is taken from the following racial/ethnic groups: White not Hispanic, African American not Hispanic, Asian/Pacific Islander not Hispanic, Native American not Hispanic, and Hispanic. Washington PRAMS' weighted response rate for 2009 was 76%.

To find what other states participate in PRAMS see the CDC PRAMS website.

Unless otherwise noted, all materials and forms on this page are in PDF format.

Links to external resources are provided as a public service and do not imply endorsement by the Washington State Department of Health.