Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
We're working to fix a technical issue causing problems with our broadcasts. We'll have it resolved as soon as possible. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Montana Receives $10 Million To Improve Maternal Health

This graphic provided by Montana Department of Health and Human Services explains the various aspects of the MOM Program.
Jon Ebelt
/
Montana Deparment of Health and Human Services
This graphic provided by Montana Department of Health and Human Services explains the various aspects of the MOM Program.

 Montana To Receive Federal Grant For Maternal Health

Montana has been awarded a $10 million federal grant to improve the health outcomes for pregnant and postpartum women in rural Montana. 

Montana Obstetric and Maternal Support is designed to improve some very dire Montana statistics. 

"We have the sixth highest maternal mortality rate in the nation and for me that has to improve," says Sheila Hogan, director of the state's Department of Health and Human Services.

MOMS is funded by a federal grant worth $10 million for five years. It will provide training and assistance for rural clinic providers treating high risk pregnant and postpartum patients. The training and assistance would come through telehealth programs already in place, like Billings Clinic’s Project ECHO and the Eastern Montana Telemedicine Network that provide access to OB/GYN specialists, as well as ones developed to provide more immediate consultation.

The grant will help fund a Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Task Force to review select cases and give recommendations on preventative measures.

The MOMS program is also developing Simulation in Motion lab trucks that will travel to rural hospitals and clinics to provide hands on state-of-the-art skills training.

The program will purchase Apple iPads and other electronics needed for direct electronic connections and consultations. It will also plans to apply for FCC funding to improve rural broadband and internet access.

The University of Montana has already drafted an evaluation plan to collect and analyze the data and suggest changes to the program."Our goal is to set up a sustainable system that will support these women on-going," Hogan said. 

MOMS is expected to launch early next year.

Copyright 2019 Yellowstone Public Radio

Kay Erickson has been working in broadcasting in Billings for more than 20 years. She spent well over a decade as news assignment editor at KTVQ-TV before joining the staff at YPR. She is a graduate of Northern Illinois University, with a degree in broadcast journalism. Shortly after graduation she worked in Great Falls where she was one of the first female sports anchor and reporter in Montana.
Become a sustaining member for as low as $5/month
Make an annual or one-time donation to support MTPR
Pay an existing pledge or update your payment information
Related Content