Efforts to improve maternal and infant health across Louisiana are reaching new milestones, reflecting expanded support for families and growing impact statewide.
More than 130,000 babies have now been born with support from Louisiana Healthcare Connections, alongside the distribution of 25,000 cribs to families across the state. These milestones highlight ongoing investments in programs that support healthy pregnancies, safe sleep practices, and early childhood development.
The organization supports approximately 12,000 births each year, reinforcing a continued focus on improving outcomes for mothers and babies throughout Louisiana.
“Healthy moms mean healthy babies, and that means a stronger future for Louisiana,” said Jamie Schlottman, Plan President of Louisiana Healthcare Connections. “We will continue to provide programs that support maternal and infant health at every stage, from pregnancy through early childhood.”
A range of programs is helping deliver that support to families across the state.
The Start Smart for Your Baby program provides care management services that include health education, appointment reminders, and connections to community resources. Families also have access to mobile tools that offer guidance throughout pregnancy and early childhood.
Community baby showers held across Louisiana offer expectant families access to health education, essential baby supplies, and opportunities to connect with local providers in a supportive environment.
Safe sleep initiatives continue to play a critical role in improving infant health outcomes. Through partnerships with Cribs for Kids, families receive portable cribs along with education on safe sleep practices, helping reduce the risk of sleep-related infant deaths.
“Our crib distribution efforts are about more than providing a safe place for a baby to sleep. They are about saving lives,” said Dr. Dana Lawson, Senior Vice President of Population Health and Clinical Operations. “Safe sleep education is one of the most effective ways we can protect the health of Louisiana’s children.”
These efforts are supported by broader resources for families, including breastfeeding support, access to lactation services, and coverage for breast pumps. Early pediatric care is also encouraged through well-child visits, with incentives available to support families in completing recommended visits during the first 15 months of life.
“Supporting maternal and infant health requires more than medical care. It requires a strong network of education, resources, and early support,” said Dr. Stewart Gordon, Chief Medical Officer of Louisiana Healthcare Connections. “By providing families with these tools, we are helping improve birth outcomes and give babies a healthier start.”
Together, these milestones reflect a continued commitment to strengthening maternal and child health across Louisiana through education, resources, and community-based support.