SPRINGFIELD, IL (Chambana Today) – The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services recently announced it will be participating in the new Transforming Maternal Health Model (TMaH).
This decision was made by the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The new model seeks to improve maternal health outcomes by implementing a more whole-person approach to care. The federal program will be providing $17 million over 10 years to help develop a better approach to helping with physical health, mental health and social needs throughout the pregnancy.
“We are honored to be chosen to participate in this new, innovative model, which will allow us to focus directly on improving maternal and child health outcomes in two underserved areas of the state,” said Acting HFS Director Elizabeth M. Whitehorn. “This support will go a long way to promoting equitable access to healthcare for families at a very critical time – during pregnancy, through childbirth and during the postpartum period.”
The initiative aims to reduce disparities in access and promote equitable care in alignment with the Pritzker Administration. Through this model, the Illinois Medicaid program will receive technical assistance and more resources to address gaps in maternal health care.