Big Sky Times

Montana Governor Greg Gianforte has announced a $7.5 million funding initiative aimed at improving maternal health in the state. The investment, in collaboration with the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) and the Montana Healthcare Foundation (MHF), will focus on enhancing behavioral health and substance use disorder services for pregnant and postpartum women.

"There’s no more important role in life than being a parent," stated Governor Gianforte, emphasizing the significance of the investment. The goal is to improve healthcare for new and expecting mothers, ultimately strengthening families and communities.

The funding will expand the Meadowlark Initiative, a program that was previously available in 19 Montana hospitals. With the new investment, the program will be accessible in all 31 Montana hospitals that offer maternity services. The Meadowlark Initiative focuses on prenatal and postpartum care, specifically targeting behavioral health and substance use disorder.

As per the official statement released, the program has a system in place to help families affected by substance use. By working in coordination with the Child and Family Services Division (CFSD), the Meadowlark Initiative aims to create a "plan of safe care," which can potentially mitigate the necessity for family separations.

An evaluation conducted last year showed significant progress among women enrolled in the Meadowlark Initiative. The rate of women receiving adequate prenatal care increased from 68% to 85%.

While acknowledging the progress, Aaron Wernham, CEO of MHF, noted that there is still more work to be done, particularly in the realm of mental health services and support for pregnant and postpartum women.

This announcement follows a policy shift led by Governor Gianforte to extend Medicaid coverage to mothers up to 12 months after childbirth. The $7.5 million investment is a significant step toward enhancing the health and well-being of new and expecting mothers, as well as families across Montana.