Healthy Start is a nationally recognized program of BCFS Health and Human Services that provides medical care and case management for women who are pregnant or raising a child 18 months or younger, for the purpose of reducing infant mortality, preventing child abuse and assisting families in meeting basic health needs (nutrition, housing and psychosocial support).
Since 2001, BCFS Health and Human Services Healthy Start program has led efforts to decrease disparities in access to maternal and child healthcare by providing community-based medical care and case management services to residents in South and East Texas. Currently they serve families in ZIP codes 75702 and 75708 in Tyler, Texas.
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, premature birth, low-birth weight and shorter gestation periods account for more than 60% of infant deaths in the country. High rates of infant mortality are especially prevalent in communities with large minority populations, high rates of unemployment and poverty, and limited access to safe housing and medical providers.
Thanks to Healthy Start, more women are receiving prenatal care who need it.
“It’s a very good program that has helped my family a lot in the process of delivering our baby,” Carmen Sanchez said after completing her two-week check up after her C-section. “It’s very convenient and I’m grateful that I didn’t have to travel far for my appointments.”
Healthy Start Services:
Women in BCFS Health and Human Services Healthy Start program are seen by a nurse practitioner. In addition, they get free transportation to prenatal medical appointments and receive caring, personal attention by our qualified medical staff. Clients also receive outpatient case management services to address their medical, social, financial, educational, legal, housing, parenting and employment needs. Additional services provided include:
- Pregnancy Tests
- Prenatal and Postpartum Care
- Free Well Woman Exams
- Laboratory and Pharmacy Services
- Pediatric Services
- Health and Parenting Education
- Registration for Medicaid and CHIP
- Referral Services for Employment
- Education and Community Programs
- Case Management Services
