Parkland’s Healthy Start Program improving the health of growing families
Celebrating 30 years and an expansion to 33 ZIP Codes
In a region as large as North Texas, combating worsening health outcomes for mothers and their babies requires more than just medical expertise—it takes a community effort. The Parkland Healthy Start Program is a prime example that when it comes to nurturing families, it truly takes a village.
The Parkland program is a federally funded initiative designed to address the many challenges faced by expecting and new mothers and fathers in the Dallas area. With a goal of reducing disparities in maternal and infant health, the program provides comprehensive services that extend beyond traditional healthcare.
For more than three decades, experts at Parkland have been focused on reducing infant mortality and improving health outcomes for women before, during and after a pregnancy. Now in its 30th year, the Parkland Healthy Start Program is expanding its reach to serve 33 ZIP Codes within Dallas County.
In addition to celebrating this important milestone as well its expansion, the program will also host its annual Infant Health Summit on Friday, Sept. 13 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Parkland Moody Outpatient Center Auditorium, 5151 Maple Ave, Dallas, 75235. The summit will focus on addressing non-medical drivers of health as well as highlight strategies to advance maternal and child health in our community. Attendees may also join virtually.
Misty Wilder, MSW, program manager for Parkland Healthy Start, shares that attendees will leave inspired and equipped with knowledge to help drive equitable outcomes for babies and their families. “September is Infant Mortality Awareness Month, designated to center the voice of those most effected by infant and maternal mortality along with highlighting groundbreaking research and programs addressing maternal health,” Wilder said.
The Parkland Healthy Start Program focuses on several core areas to improve the health and wellbeing of Dallas families and to reduce infant deaths, pre-term and low-weight births.
Personalized care coordination: Each participant in the Parkland Healthy Start Program is connected with a Community Health Worker at Parkland. Each enrollee’s Community Health Worker helps the patient with navigating the healthcare system, accessing resources and receiving tailored support throughout their pregnancy and postnatal period.
Educational workshops and support groups: The program offers a range of education workshops and support groups that cover topics such as prenatal care, breastfeeding and infant care. These sessions are designed to empower families with knowledge and help them build a supportive community network.
Home visits: To bridge the gap between clinical care and home life, the program includes home visits by trained Community Health Workers. These visits provide practical support and ensure that mothers and infants are thriving.
Resource connection: Addressing non-medical drivers of health is crucial. The program helps families connect with essential services, including housing, food assistance and transportation and childcare resources to ensure they have the support they need to provide for their baby.
Last year, more than 1,100 women, babies and fathers were enrolled in the program. This now expanded coverage area is crucial in addressing health inequities that often vary by neighborhood. “By reaching so many areas the program ensures that its vital resources and support systems are accessible to those in need, ensuring we’re helping families and babies across our community,” Wilder said.
For more information about Parkland Healthy Start, visit www.parklandhealth.org/dallas-healthy-start. For more information on the services provided at Parkland, please visit our website at www.parklandhealth.org.
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