Members in Action Maternal Case Study: Partnering to Improve Birth Outcomes in a Rural Community

In 2015, Kearny launched the Pioneer Baby program in partnership with KU School of Medicine-Wichita to improve pregnancy and birth outcomes by reducing pregnancy complications, premature births, low- or extremely high-birth weight, and cesarean sections while increasing breastfeeding rates. The hospital also tapped outside funding, such as grants and local large employers, to upgrade computer software and purchase a 4D ultrasound machine.