The Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) is a vital, CDC-led initiative implemented by states nationwide to better understand maternal behaviors and experiences before, during, and after pregnancy. These insights directly inform policies and programs that improve health outcomes for mothers and infants.
At MDR, we partner with states to deliver high-quality, compassionate PRAMS data collection to help support better decisions and stronger public health systems.
A Trusted PRAMS Data Collection Partner
MDR brings over a decade of hands-on experience supporting PRAMS programs across the country. Since 2013, we have conducted PRAMS data collection in multiple states and completed thousands of telephone interviews, supported by a dedicated PRAMS team and in-house call center.
Our approach is grounded in collaboration. We work closely with state partners and CDC program staff to ensure every aspect of data collection aligns with protocol requirements, performance goals, and evolving program needs.
PRAMS Telephone Survey Interviewing
Our telephone operations are central to our PRAMS work and a key driver of strong response rates and high-quality data.
- A large, experienced team of PRAMS interviewers and supervisors, selected from our experienced interviewing staff based on performance, tenure, and ability to build rapport
- SAMS certified interviewers trained in PRAMS protocol, CDC Human Subjects requirements, and sensitive interviewing practices
- Proven calling strategies, including varied call scheduling and refusal conversion techniques to maximize participation
- Real-time data entry and case management using the CDC’s PRAMS Integrated Data Collection System (PIDS)
MDR has extensive experience working within PIDS, using its CATI functionality for telephone interviewing, call tracking, and data capture in compliance with CDC requirements.
We recognize that PRAMS interviews involve deeply personal experiences. Our team approaches every interaction with empathy, professionalism, and respect to help participants feel heard while ensuring reliable, high-quality data collection.
Full-Service Mail Survey Operations
MDR provides complete PRAMS mail data collection services, fully aligned with CDC and state protocols:
- Preparation, assembly, and mailing of all survey materials according to batch schedules
- Rigorous quality control checks to ensure accuracy and completeness
- Weekly processing of completed surveys and returned mail
- Address verification and remailing workflows to reduce nonresponse
Our team manages every detail from inventory and timing to tracking and documentation to ensure mail operations are consistent, compliant, and efficient.
Supporting Innovation and Program Evolution
PRAMS programs are constantly evolving, and MDR is built to adapt alongside our partners. We support states in implementing changes and improving performance through:
- Seamless implementation of questionnaire updates, including state-added questions
- Testing and validation of changes before deployment
- Continuous feedback from interviewers and respondents to inform improvements
- Operational recommendations to strengthen response rates and data quality
In addition, we help states plan for the future through alternative data collection approaches. MDR has experience developing and deploying PRAMS-style surveys outside of PIDS using flexible, multi-mode platforms. This provides a pathway for modernization, customization, or continuity planning in the event of system disruptions.
Quality, Compliance, and Care in Every Interaction
Quality is embedded in everything we do:
- Structured quality assurance processes across mail, phone, and data entry
- Supervisor monitoring and coaching to ensure consistent interviewing standards
- Verification procedures to maintain data accuracy and integrity
- Strict adherence to CDC and state PRAMS protocols
At the same time, we prioritize the participant experience. PRAMS respondents are sharing personal stories, and our team ensures each interaction is handled with care, sensitivity, and respect.
Proven PRAMS experience
At MDR, we believe strong partnerships lead to stronger data. Our work as an extension of your team in a way that is collaborative, responsive, and aligned with your goals. Whether supporting ongoing data collection or helping you navigate change, we bring:
- Proven PRAMS experience
- Operational excellence
- Flexible, forward-looking solutions
- A strong commitment to high-quality public health data
Learn more about how MDR can support your PRAMS program with reliable data collection and a partnership approach built on trust, quality, and results.
