Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) has announced its selection by the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to join the Transforming Maternal Health (TMaH) Model. This initiative aims to enhance maternal health outcomes through a comprehensive approach to care. Illinois will receive $17 million over ten years to develop and test a holistic strategy addressing physical, mental, and social needs during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum periods.

"We are honored to be chosen to participate in this new, innovative model, which will allow us to focus directly on improving maternal and child health outcomes in two underserved areas of the state," stated Acting HFS Director Elizabeth M. Whitehorn. She emphasized that this support would significantly promote equitable healthcare access for families during critical times.

Dr. Sameer Vohra, Director of the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), expressed support for HFS's participation in the TMaH model: "Addressing maternal and child health disparities is a significant priority for IDPH as we advance our Healthy Illinois 2028: State Health Improvement Plan."

The majority of resources awarded will be directed toward enhancing provider infrastructure. This funding will help develop a value-based alternative payment model for maternity care services aimed at improving quality and promoting service sustainability.

Despite high expenditure on maternal healthcare, the United States faces disproportionately high rates of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Medicaid enrollees often experience significant disparities in care, particularly those from historically underserved communities.

This initiative aligns with the Pritzker Administration's priorities by reducing disparities in access and promoting equitable care. Currently, Medicaid covers nearly half of all births in Illinois. The TMaH Model seeks to build on efforts towards birth equity by piloting programs in Aurora and Rockford communities.

Through this model, Illinois' Medicaid program aims to bridge gaps in maternal healthcare by investing in community-based providers and increasing access to midwives, doulas, lactation consultants, and perinatal Community Health Workers. The goal is also to improve prenatal care for chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension while reducing complicated procedures such as C-sections for low-risk birthing persons.

The TMaH Model involves a three-year pre-implementation phase providing technical assistance followed by a seven-year implementation period where HFS will collaborate with providers and community organizations.