LOCK HAVEN, PA — A groundbreaking pilot program to address the persistent challenges of maternal health care in rural Pennsylvania has been unveiled by the Shapiro Administration, bringing hope to expectant mothers in underserved areas. This innovative two-year initiative, backed by a $1.3 million investment, aims to bridge critical gaps in pre- and post-pregnancy care and serve as a model for other regions experiencing similar challenges.
At the State Health Center in Lock Haven, health officials joined local leaders and UPMC North Central Pennsylvania to announce the program, which seeks to deliver accessible, comprehensive maternal care. Women in rural communities like Clinton County, where obstetric care is limited and hospitals are miles away, will benefit from a network of services tailored to their needs. This includes physical, mental, emotional, and social support delivered in partnership with state and local healthcare providers.
“The Shapiro Administration is funding and leading this pilot project because of our deep commitment to improving care for mothers and babies, not only in rural areas like Clinton County, but in every region where access to pregnancy care is limited,” said Health Secretary Dr. Debra Bogen. “Our goal is simple: to develop a local network that provides easier access to basic pregnancy and postpartum care services that support mothers, babies, and families.”
Launched with a community baby shower-themed open house, the program opened its doors to provide expectant mothers with basic prenatal services such as health assessments, pregnancy testing, vitamins, and referrals for medical or social support. The project leans on the expertise of community health nurses and leverages the collaborative strength of local partners, including the YMCA, WIC, and Safe Kids PA Lycoming County.
Due to Clinton County’s limited number of obstetric gynecology providers and distant birthing facilities, the area was chosen as the pilot site. Patti Jackson-Gehris, president of UPMC in North Central Pennsylvania, lauded the collaboration. “I am hopeful that today’s event will showcase an innovative model of care and inspire others to adopt similar approaches across the state,” she said. “We are grateful to be able to partner with the state in support of this pilot program. Today’s event is just the beginning of a larger, ongoing dialogue aimed at developing sustainable solutions to ensure every woman has access to the care she deserves.”
The importance of such efforts cannot be overstated. Hospital closures across Pennsylvania have exacerbated the challenges of accessing maternal health services, forcing women in rural areas to travel farther for basic care, a fact noted by Department of Human Services Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh. “For too many people in Pennsylvania in both rural and urban areas, access to maternal health care is an ongoing challenge,” she said. “That is why this pilot program is so important, and DHS is proud to partner with the Department of Health, local health care providers, and health systems to make sure that women are getting high-quality care close to home.”
This initiative forms part of a broader strategy by the Shapiro Administration to tackle maternal mortality and improve outcomes for mothers and babies across the state. Last year, the administration established a rural health care working group to explore solutions. Additionally, Governor Shapiro’s budget increased funding for maternal health programs by $2.6 million, with a focus on addressing racial disparities that disproportionately affect Black mothers.
Beyond tackling immediate needs, the pilot draws upon data and recommendations from the 2024 Pennsylvania Maternal Mortality Review Committee (MMRC) report, as well as insights gained from listening sessions and surveys. With maternal mortality rates rising nationally and Pennsylvania losing 107 residents to pregnancy-related causes in 2020, the urgency for action is evident.
Through bold investments like this pilot project, the Shapiro Administration is working to create a future where maternal health care is accessible to all Pennsylvanians, regardless of their zip code. As the program progresses, its impact could signal a statewide transformation, saving lives and supporting families where it’s needed most.
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