HRSA awards $100 million to improve maternal health outcomes

The Health Resources and Services Administration yesterday awarded $100 million in grants to improve infant mortality rates and maternal health outcomes in vulnerable communities. Through the Health Start Initiative, 100 organizations will receive up to $1.1 million each year over five years to support a wide range of services, including health care coordination; case management; linkage to social services; screening and counseling for alcohol, tobacco and drug use; breastfeeding support; education and parenting support. "Healthy Start programs provide information, resources, and support to pregnant and parenting women and their families to ensure a healthy pregnancy and to help nurture their newborns," said HRSA Administrator George Sigounas. "This support is critical to addressing the significant racial and ethnic disparities in the rates of preterm birth and infant death in the U.S."