Health Access Nurturing Development Services (HANDS) Program
Model effectiveness research report last updated: 2015
In brief
Evidence of model effectiveness
This model meets the criteria established by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for an “evidence-based early childhood home visiting service delivery model’ for the general population, but does not meet the criteria for tribal populations.
Model description
HANDS is a voluntary home visiting program designed to prevent child maltreatment, improve family functioning, facilitate positive pregnancy and child health outcomes, and maximize child growth and development. The program targets first-time pregnant mothers or parents with children up to 3 months old, who have multiple challenges, such as single parenthood, low income, substance abuse problems, or being victims of abuse or domestic violence. A trained paraprofessional or professional home visitor, such as a social worker, conducts prenatal and postnatal home visits with parents; provides parenting information, problem solving techniques, parenting skill development; and addresses basic needs. The level of services offered to families varies and is based on the needs of the family and the pace at which they progress through the program. For more information, please read the Model Overview.
Extent of evidence
For more information, see the research database. For more information on the criteria used to rate research, please see details of HomVEE’s methods and standards.