#USA #San Diego #Maternal Health #Blue Shield Promise #Promising Start

Blue Shield of California's New Initiative: Promising Start Program

In a groundbreaking move to support new mothers and their babies, Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan has launched the Promising Start program. This initiative aims to improve both the physical and mental health of expecting parents by providing essential support during the critical first year after childbirth. Operating in San Diego County, this program serves as a lifeline, easing the financial burden associated with welcoming a new child into the family.

The Promising Start program expands on Blue Shield's existing Medi-Cal Maternity Program, introducing additional resources designed to benefit members and their newborns. Blue Shield of California recognizes that the costs related to newborn care can be overwhelming. By offering Promising Start kits, which contain vital supplies for new parents, along with vouchers for purchasing diapers and other essential items, the program seeks to alleviate financial stress.

Key Features of the Promising Start Program

The Promising Start kits are distributed to members close to their expected delivery dates. These kits typically include:

• - Diapers: Essential for every newborn, these items are estimated to cost families over $80 each month.
• - Diaper-rash cream: This helps maintain the baby's comfort and skin health.
• - Breastfeeding pads: Supporting new mothers in their breastfeeding journey.

In addition to the kits, families are provided with vouchers for Amazon.com to enable them to purchase diapers and necessary newborn supplies. These vouchers are available to Blue Shield Promise members residing in San Diego County, enhancing their ability to meet their child's needs without additional financial strain.

Commitment to Healthcare Equity

The initiative is a part of Blue Shield’s broader commitment to closing healthcare gaps and providing equitable healthcare access. Jennifer Schirmer, the vice president of growth for Blue Shield Promise, emphasized the program's importance by stating, "Every mother and baby deserve a strong, healthy start — and that begins with access to essential care and support during the most critical stages of parenthood and infancy." The program not only aids in reducing financial burdens but also prioritizes preventive care by encouraging regular well-child visits and maternal checkups.

To qualify for the Promising Start program, individuals need to meet specific criteria, including:

• - Being a current member of the Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan
• - Residing in San Diego County
• - Being either pregnant or having given birth within the last 11 months

Increasing Health Awareness

Promoting awareness about maternal and infant health, the program ensures that parents are informed about available resources. Engagement occurs during the prenatal stage, helping parents schedule appointments for postpartum checkups and pediatrician visits, which are critical for maintaining health following childbirth. The proactive approach underscores the importance of early intervention and regular healthcare check-ups, aiming to create a supportive community for new families.

Kristen Cerf, the president and CEO of Blue Shield Promise, adds, “We know diapers and other essentials are crucial for infant health and the cost can be a financial burden for some of our members. We’re thrilled to have an opportunity to help families by providing these essentials and creating incentives for members to get the postpartum care they need for themselves as well as their babies.”

Conclusion

The Promising Start program by Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan signifies a monumental effort to enhance health outcomes for mothers and their babies, emphasizing the importance of community support in the early stages of parenthood. By providing essential supplies and promoting access to healthcare services, Blue Shield reaffirms its commitment to building healthier communities.

For more information about the Promising Start program and to learn how Blue Shield is supporting families in Los Angeles County as well, visit the Blue Shield Promise Maternity site.