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Elevance Health Foundation's $700,000 Funding Boost for Better Births Initiative

Elevance Health Foundation has recently announced a significant $700,000 funding allocation to the Better Births Initiative (BBI) by CHC: Creating Healthier Communities (CHC). The initiative aims to improve maternal health outcomes and reduce the alarming rates of preterm births, particularly in under-resourced communities across the United States. This funding is crucial as it seeks to address the health disparities faced by expectant mothers, especially within the Black community, where maternal mortality rates are disproportionately high.

Context of the Better Births Initiative

Since its launch in 2022, the BBI has made considerable strides in enhancing maternal health outcomes. With the support of the Elevance Health Foundation, the initiative has demonstrated tangible improvements in maternal health metrics. Participants in the program have a remarkable pregnancy full-term rate of 91.2%, surpassing the national average of 85.3% for similar demographics. Furthermore, the average delivery occurred at 38.5 weeks, indicating fewer premature births, and most participants reported a significant reduction in anxiety levels, attributing this change to the program's holistic support.

This funding boost will not only allow for the continuation of these essential programs but also enhance service delivery in areas like Indianapolis and Atlanta. The BBI plans to reach an additional 300 pregnant women in Atlanta through a coordinated care model that revolves around trained doulas and community health workers. This initiative is designed to deliver both medical support and social services, ensuring that expectant mothers receive comprehensive care throughout their pregnancy.

The Need for Focused Maternal Care

The dire statistics surrounding maternal health highlight the urgency of such initiatives. Research indicates that Black women face significantly higher risks during childbirth, with one in every 2,000 experiencing fatal outcomes — a statistic that is approximately 2.7 times higher than the national average. By addressing social determinants of health and improving access to reproductive care, the Better Births Initiative seeks to create support networks that empower mothers and enrich their pregnancy experiences.

Strengthening Community Partnerships

Part of the funding strategy involves reinforcing partnerships with local community organizations and health systems. CHC Creating Healthier Communities has collaborated with various stakeholders over the years to develop impactful solutions that alleviate barriers to health access. Demetrius Geiger, CHC's Program Manager, emphasizes that the success of initiatives like BBI relies on the synergy created between thousands of partner organizations across the nation.

In Indianapolis, the Community Leadership Action Board (CoLAB) has united different sectors to identify and respond to critical gaps in maternal care. With Elevance's renewed support, CoLAB is pushing for innovative, actionable solutions that include refining referral systems and expanding the local capacity for care. This collaborative framework aims to assist 180 pregnant women, providing essential services such as housing, food, transport, and behavioral health resources.

Impactful Solutions for Lasting Change

Elevance Health Foundation Chief Health Officer Shantanu Agrawal emphasizes the foundation's dedication to combating the root causes of maternal health disparities. This ongoing partnership with CHC represents a firm commitment to advancing community-led innovations and improving health outcomes nationwide. By supporting the Better Births Initiative and similar programs, Elevance Health Foundation aims to create lasting changes that not only support immediate maternal health needs but also address the underlying social issues at play.

Since its inception in 2015, the Elevance Foundation has invested in a variety of maternal health programs, ranging from prenatal care services to mental health support. This specific funding initiative illustrates a broader movement towards ensuring that all women have equal access to high-quality healthcare, paving a path towards better overall health outcomes for mothers and their children.

As the Better Births Initiative continues to gain momentum, it seeks to set new standards for coordinated maternal care that will ultimately improve the lives of families across the nation. By driving measurable change and encouraging community partnerships, the Elevance Health Foundation is playing a vital role in fostering healthier communities and supporting the well-being of future generations.