Improving Birth Outcomes: The Centering Louisiana Project
Evidence-based interventions in maternal health can improve birth outcomes. Results from a group prenatal care initiative in Louisiana serving women experiencing a variety of risk factors achieved low rates of preterm births and low birthweight babies, and participants were highly satisfied with their experience.
Historically, Louisiana’s birth outcomes have been among the worst in the United States, with the state having the third-highest rates for preterm births and low birthweight babies in 2012. Under the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Innovation’s Strong Start Initiative for Mothers and Newborns, the Elevance Health Public Policy Institute convened a grant project to improve care delivery and birth outcomes for women and babies in Louisiana.
From February 2014 through December 2016, more than 960 low-income pregnant women received services through an evidence-based group prenatal care model with proven results in reducing preterm births and low birthweight babies. The intervention was implemented by seven participating provider sites across the state.
Related Public Policy Research
Partnering with Care Providers to Improve Maternal Health
Maternal health disparities are worsening in the U.S., and care provider-focused initiatives are one strategy to improve maternal health outcomes, especially within Medicaid where women are at greater risk for morbidity and mortality.
Addressing Prenatal and Postpartum Coverage Gaps in Medicaid
Medicaid is a critical source of insurance coverage for pregnant women. However, there are still gaps in coverage, due to delays in when pregnant women access Medicaid managed care benefits and how long after delivery they retain coverage.
Addressing Maternal Health Disparities: Doula Access in Medicaid
Several states reimburse for doula services for pregnant women enrolled in Medicaid. Analysis of utilization and outcomes in three states indicates that women receiving doula support have lower odds of cesarean delivery and postpartum depression and anxiety and are more likely to attend their postnatal visit than women not using doulas.