Key Programs
Better Starts for All is increasing access to care in maternity care deserts through mobile health services, Supportive Pregnancy Care, provider coalitions and virtual education.
Regional Programs
Better Starts for All is increasing access to care in maternity care deserts through mobile health services, Supportive Pregnancy Care, provider coalitions and virtual education.
Yet women who live in these areas give birth to more than 500,000 babies a year. Nationwide, 35 percent of counties lack access to hospitals offering obstetric services and have no obstetrics providers. It's time for change.
Get educatedBetter Starts for All is seeking leaders of community-based organizations and maternal health clinicians working in or serving Southeast Ohio and Wards 7 and 8 in Washington D.C. March of Dimes will support and facilitate the development, implementation and evaluation of the community-led strategies as determined by the workgroup with a goal of improving maternal and infant health outcomes.
If you are interested in participating or want to learn more about the Community Coalitions, please call 800-670-3339 or email betterstartsforallohio@marchofdimes.org in Ohio or call 800-865-0604 or email betterstartsforalldc@marchofdimes.org in Washington D.C.
Mobile health clinics provide healthcare services at designated places in the community, aiming to reach those who would otherwise not receive healthcare services at a traditional clinic or hospital. Research shows that mobile health clinic providers often serve at-risk populations and they strive to develop critical and trusting relationships with patients. Through these trusting relationships, participants are more likely to adopt healthy behaviors.
Becoming a Mom offers pregnant women free education and support through a series of live, online group sessions. During these interactive groups facilitated by a trained health educator, participants will learn about important topics related to pregnancy and baby, and be able to ask questions and connect with other expecting families in the area. The groups, offered in 60-minute online sessions, are available in English and Spanish. Topics include prenatal care, foods to eat, how to manage stress, things to avoid during pregnancy, preparing for labor and birth and caring for yourself and your baby after their arrival.