Grant: Catalyst Grant: Partnering for Impact - Health Services and Policy Research

Early pregnancy loss (EPL), or miscarriage, affects up to one in four pregnancies in Canada, with most losses happening in the first trimester. Despite its frequency, many people and families face major challenges getting the care, support, and information they need during this vulnerable time. The majority of those experiencing early pregnancy loss turn to emergency departments (EDs) for help, but EDs are often not set up to provide the specialized, compassionate, and continuous care required. This can result in long waits, repeat visits, unclear follow-up, and missed opportunities to prevent serious health complications. The emotional impact of miscarriage is also profound, yet mental health support is rarely available through current care pathways. Our project brings together patients, healthcare professionals, and community leaders to co-design solutions that put the needs and voices of individuals and families at the centre of care. We will use patient journey mapping to understand barriers people face when seeking care, survey primary care providers to identify gaps and challenges, and scan nationally and internationally for services for innovative models of early pregnancy care. Stakeholders will participate in group dialogues to build consensus around the best ways to organize and improve care, with a special focus on making services accessible outside the ED. Finally, we will co-create a digital information platform, integrated with the Pregnancy & Infant Loss (PAIL) website, to provide timely, clear guidance and resources on where and when to seek help. By partnering with people who have lived experience, clinicians, and system leaders, this project aims to make early pregnancy loss care more accessible, supportive, and responsive. Our work will lay the foundation for practical tools and digital resources that can be used in Ontario and across Canada, ensuring that no one faces early pregnancy loss alone or without the care they deserve.