A new program is working to fill gaps in Wyoming’s maternal healthcare
The closure of labor and delivery services at Evanston Regional Hospital last December left a significant gap in prenatal care in southwestern Wyoming. Utah-based Intermountain Health has stepped in to fill the gap, ensuring that patients wouldn't be left without care. Through its recently launched Maternal Health Connections (MHC) program at Evanston Regional, expectant mothers now have regained access to comprehensive prenatal and postpartum care, including virtual monitoring of vital signs, mental health support, genetic counseling, and assistance for patients with substance use disorders. The program helps reduce the burden on patients who previously had to travel long distances for short appointments, often losing work hours and wages.
The program has already received about 25 referrals within a few weeks of operation. Nurse Courtney Bettinson said her patients have expressed gratitude that they don’t have to travel hours for essential care anymore. “This is my community, and it means a lot to me,” said Bettinson. “I will pour my professional heart and soul into this program.”
Bettinson and the team at MHC are dedicated to creating birth and postpartum plans for each patient, ensuring they are well-prepared for labor and delivery. The program aims to expand to other areas, such as Kemmerer, where labor services ended in 2022.