In South Carolina, maternal and child health (MCH) faces significant challenges that require urgent attention and intervention. Severe maternal morbidity (SMM), which includes life-threatening conditions such as heart failure, kidney failure, sepsis, shock, embolism, excessive bleeding, stroke and chronic lifelong diseases, poses a serious risk to pregnant women. These conditions can lead to lifelong complications, including blindness, amputations, mental health issues, and, in some cases, death.

Recent research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has shown that chronic conditions are the most significant contributors to rising maternal mortality and morbidity in the U.S. In South Carolina, an estimated 1 in every 10 perinatal patients is diagnosed with diabetes, increasing their likelihood of experiencing SMM, ICU admissions, avoidable C-sections and having children suffering from birth defects.

The health of infants is equally concerning. Prematurity and low birthweight are leading causes of infant mortality in South Carolina. Over 12 percent of infants born in the state are premature, ranking South Carolina fifth in the country. Additionally, South Carolina exhibits some of the highest rates of low birthweight in the nation, with 1 in 10 babies at high risk for immediate health problems and greater risks for developmental delays and chronic diseases later in life.

The BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina Foundation is committed to tackling these complex health care challenges head-on. By connecting bold, innovative community partners with support, the Foundation aims to improve health outcomes for all South Carolinians. Providing women with support during pregnancy and early motherhood can significantly enhance the health of families and the next generation.

Managing Maternal Diabetes for Healthier Pregnancies

SC MOMs, the management of maternal diabetes program of Diabetes Free SC, helps pregnant women with diabetes manage their condition through coordinated care from specialists. In-person care and telemedicine provide close monitoring for these women during and after pregnancy. Since its launch in 2020, the program has served over 3,000 patients. Women in the program and their newborns have fewer health risks compared to those not in the SC MOMs program. This initiative has reduced the risk of birth defects, stillbirth and preterm birth, ensuring healthier pregnancies and better outcomes for newborns.

Community Health Workers Supporting Moms and Babies

Another impactful program is the Perinatal Community Health Worker (CHW) Project initiated by the Center for Community Health Alignment (CCHA). This initiative uses CHWs to assist pregnant women and new mothers with accessing health care, addressing social determinants of health, and providing education on prenatal and postpartum care.

The program has successfully connected hundreds of families to health care services, with high rates of successful enrollments in Medicaid and WIC. By improving access to care and providing essential support, the Perinatal CHW Project has contributed to healthier births and increased breastfeeding rates.

Comprehensive Support for Early Childhood in Spartanburg

In Spartanburg, South Carolina, the Hello Family program offers a range of services from pregnancy through early childhood, including home visits by trained professionals. The program has shown substantial positive results in reducing cesarean deliveries, NICU admissions and low birth weight births, and has significantly reduced emergency department visits for infants.

By providing comprehensive support and resources, Hello Family ensures that infants receive the necessary care to thrive in their early years.

Collective Impact on Maternal Child Health

These programs collectively aim to enhance maternal and child health by addressing various aspects of health, development and support systems. They focus on improving birth outcomes, supporting healthy families, addressing health disparities, building community capacity and fostering innovation. The impact of these initiatives is evident in the healthier pregnancies, better long-term health for mothers and children, and reduced barriers to care for underserved populations.

Maternal child health plays a vital role in building healthier communities. The collaborative efforts of programs such as MOMs, EACH Mom and Baby Collaborative, and Hello Family are making a lasting impact on the health and well-being of families across South Carolina.