Executive Director Ashley Bearden Campbell Tours Northeast Arkansas Maternal Health Institutions

AIM had the privilege of touring Northeast Arkansas and seeing the incredible community efforts underway to support maternal and infant health. At The Parent Hub, an innovative organization of community members dedicated to addressing the needs of students and families in collaboration with White River Health System and Batesville School District, we learned about broad array of services and support they offer. The Parent Hub is a wonderful and welcoming space where families can come together to obtain information and resources, such as breastfeeding classes, diapers and car seats, translators and assistance navigating financial assistance and their new in-home Parents-as-Teachers program. From newborn care to support for moms navigating early childhood, this collaboration is creating a nurturing environment for families to thrive.

At St. Bernards Healthcare, we saw an exceptional model of comprehensive maternal care in action. With three clinic locations and plans to expand, St. Bernards ensures that every mom, no matter her insurance status, has access to essential prenatal and postnatal care. I was especially moved by their commitment to underserved communities and their mental health initiatives, like postpartum depression screenings, support groups and counseling. Through their partnerships with the Angels Program for telehealth maternal care and the Nurse Family Partnership for in-home visits, they provide ongoing care well beyond childbirth, ensuring both moms and babies are supported for the long run. This is truly a one stop shop for moms to access comprehensive, high-quality care from passionate professionals starting from the moment they have a positive pregnancy test to post-pregnancy.

It’s so inspiring to see these communities come together to uplift and empower mothers through every stage of their journey. They serve as incredible examples of the power of collaboration to ensure fill gaps in care in a rural part of the state.