The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Institute for Community Health Innovation recently attended a Madison County Health Coalition meeting to discuss its efforts to improve care for expectant mothers in the Huntsville area.
UAMS, in partnership with Open Arms Pregnancy Center, offers the CenteringPregnancy® program. This group prenatal care program allows expectant mothers to receive medical care and education in a supportive group environment. It aims to address barriers like transportation and lack of insurance while providing a stronger support system for women, according to Sarah Moore, the institute’s associate director.
Moore also highlighted UAMS’s Healthy Start program, which offers holistic care for expectant mothers. This includes navigation services, home visits, and case management during and after pregnancy. Community health workers (CHWs) also provide support by helping individuals access local care and answering questions.
“Our mission is to ensure that mothers and families in Madison County receive the care they need,” Moore said. “We are working with local organizations to connect with people directly and make sure they have access to the services available.”
Alongside these programs, UAMS offers contraceptive services through its mobile health unit in Huntsville. This unit provides services such as reproductive health education and contraceptive options by appointment. It also offers walk-up health screenings at the Huntsville Library, further supporting the community’s health needs.
