With the observance of World Breastfeeding Week in August, Louisiana Healthcare Connections underscores its commitment to reducing healthcare inequities with several key initiatives to improve the well-being of mothers and children, including breastfeeding support.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) notes that breastfeeding is the best source of nutrition for most babies and reduces the risk of certain health conditions in both mothers and babies. So, Louisiana Healthcare Connections offers breastfeeding support as well as breast pump coverage for members who choose to breastfeed.
As a staunch advocate for reducing health disparities, Louisiana Healthcare Connections also equips its providers with essential tools to screen for food insecurity and other social determinants of health. By connecting patients with local resources, the organization aims to bridge gaps in care and support overall health and wellness. Nutritional programs have also been provided through grants, such as those assisting food banks, mobile food distribution programs, and matching SNAP dollars (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) at farmer's markets across the state, some specifically tailored for pregnancy and breastfeeding, such as the Market Mommas Club in New Orleans.
Start Smart for Your Baby® is another innovative initiative. This evidence-based program includes an app that offers health education and practical tips for pregnant individuals, helping to improve maternal and newborn health and reduce the risk of birth defects. Once a member advises Louisiana Healthcare Connections of their pregnancy, they are offered enrollment in the program walking them through each stage of pregnancy.
Recognizing the importance of early support, Louisiana Healthcare Connections also hosts baby showers and offers educational services for its members, who account for approximately 12,000 births annually. These events provide valuable resources and information to new and expecting parents.
In a proactive approach to infant safety, Louisiana Healthcare Connections initiated a safe sleep pilot program five years before the enactment of the Safe Sleep for Babies Act. This program noted a remarkable 56% reduction in infant mortality. The success of the pilot program prompted a statewide rollout, and the Cribs for Kids initiative recently celebrated the distribution of its 20,000th crib.