Expanding outreach of interpregnancy and perinatal care among high risk Mississippi women

Background: Mississippi is the poorest state in the nation and historically reports the highest rate of infant mortality. Implementing innovative strategies to improve Mississippi birth outcomes is especially challenging in the current economic climate. Over the past several years, new studies and programs suggest improved outcomes via achievement of adequate child spacing. The challenge now is to expand the outreach of these programs despite limited financial resources. Methods: A modified version of an original interpregnancy program is being implemented in two public health districts in the Mississippi Delta. Program eligibility was expanded to include women who do not have a payer source for case management of interpregnancy care or high risk pregnancies. Funding support is “in kind” through shared staffing of reimbursable perinatal care services such as family planning and the perinatal high risk management program. Results: Following staff training activities, the expanded outreach programs have begun implementation through partnering with local birthing hospitals and health providers as client recruitment sources. Drawing from “lessons learned” through original pilot projects, case management staff are anticipated to achieve similar improved birth outcomes and child spacing. Further lessons learned along with program successes and challenges will be disseminated. Conclusions: Expanding outreach of programs proven to improve outcomes among Mississippi women will assist in reducing Mississippi's high rates of infant mortality. Our vision for these programs is to empower more women with knowledge and services needed to be proactive in reproductive health decisions and preconception health.