During the recent HGO Committee Session held on January 24, 2025, significant discussions centered around maternal and child health programs in Maryland. The meeting highlighted various initiatives aimed at improving health outcomes for pregnant individuals and young children, particularly in underserved communities.

One of the key topics was the perinatal home visiting program, which provides in-home services for pregnant individuals and children up to three years old. This program, staffed by trained professionals, focuses on patient education and support during and after pregnancy. In 2023, 5,412 services were delivered to 627 participants, with 63% of these individuals residing in rural areas. Notably, none of the participants reported experiencing birth complications, indicating the program's effectiveness.

The committee also discussed the role of doulas, trained professionals who offer physical, emotional, and informational support to birthing parents. Among the participants in this program, 68% were Black, and similarly, none experienced birth complications. This underscores the importance of culturally competent care in addressing health disparities.

Another significant initiative is the Centering Pregnancy program, which fosters relationships and health literacy among pregnant individuals through group sessions. This program expanded from four sites in 2021 to 17 sites across eight counties by 2023, with 82% of participants identifying as Black or Hispanic. This expansion aligns with the priorities set by the Black Caucus to tackle maternal mortality and morbidity in Black and brown communities.

The MOM program was also highlighted, providing enhanced case management services for pregnant and postpartum individuals managing opioid use disorder. Again, none of the participants reported birth complications, showcasing the program's focus on safe pregnancies.

Additionally, the Healthy Steps program was discussed, which integrates child development experts into pediatric care for infants and toddlers. In 2023, this initiative served 1,370 children, with 85% being Black, promoting positive parenting and healthy child development outcomes.

The meeting concluded with a call to move forward with the proposed bill supporting these programs, reflecting a commitment to improving maternal and child health in Maryland. The discussions emphasized the ongoing efforts to address health disparities and ensure better outcomes for vulnerable populations. As the committee continues its work, the focus remains on enhancing these vital services and addressing any unresolved issues in maternal and child health care.