In an effort to improve maternal and infant health outcomes in the region, Avera has been awarded a federal grant of $5.4 million. This funding is being used to support an initiative known as Avera Bridging Inequities Regionally Through Healthy Start (Avera BIRTHS), which aims to reduce infant mortality by addressing the needs of 52 South Dakota counties that lack sufficient maternal health care services.
According to program director Lacey McCormack, many counties in South Dakota are considered ‘maternity deserts’, as they lack access to essential maternity health care services for women. This could be due to limited services or barriers that prevent women from accessing the care they need within their counties. The Avera BIRTHS program encompasses maternity care from pregnancy to 18 months postpartum, ensuring comprehensive care for mothers and infants.
With this grant, Avera will be able to sustain efforts over a period of five years, with the ultimate goal of reducing infant mortality rates in South Dakota. Through its work, the organization hopes to bridge the gaps in access to maternity care services and provide much-needed support for women and families in these underserved areas.
