Which of the following is NOT included in the perinatal core measures?

The choice of healthcare provider satisfaction as not being included in the perinatal core measures reflects the distinction between patient-centric outcomes and process measures focused on maternal and neonatal health. Perinatal core measures are designed specifically to evaluate clinical outcomes and the effectiveness of care during the perinatal period. These measures aim to improve health systems' performance in areas directly impacting mothers and infants, such as rates of elective delivery, management of maternal hypertension, and practices promoting breastfeeding.

In this context, elective delivery, maternal hypertension, and exclusive breast milk feeding are all crucial indicators that directly affect perinatal health outcomes. These measures track important aspects of care, demonstrating how well healthcare systems are managing potential risks and supporting healthy outcomes for mothers and their babies. However, healthcare provider satisfaction, while important for ensuring a positive work environment and possibly influencing care quality, does not directly measure health outcomes or clinical practices related to perinatal care. Thus, it is appropriately excluded from this set of measures focused on maternal and neonatal health quality metrics.