The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) is initiating the Better Birth Outcome Navigation (BBO-N) services in Chicago with the primary objective of reducing maternal and infant morbidity and mortality rates, specifically addressing racial/ethnic disparities. This grant program aligns with the foundational mission of improving public health outcomes and promoting health equity within vulnerable communities. The IDHS is committed to supporting initiatives that provide direct, individualized assistance to families, thereby fostering healthier beginnings and reducing preventable health crises for mothers and their infants.
The target beneficiaries of the BBO-N program are dyads, specifically pregnant and postpartum individuals and their infants, residing in the City of Chicago. The impact goals are ambitious, aiming to significantly decrease maternal and infant morbidity and mortality rates, with a strong emphasis on mitigating existing racial and ethnic disparities in birth outcomes. This program is designed to empower families by connecting them with essential services and promoting health and wellness through dedicated navigation support.
The program's priorities and focuses revolve around providing 1:1 assistance to connect and engage families with desired services. Navigators are expected to offer continuous support, engaging with families before and after Family Connects visits, and providing crucial information about Family Connects during the prenatal period. Collaboration with the existing Family Connects universal nurse home visiting program is a key strategic priority, ensuring a seamless continuum of care and appropriate handoffs between services. This collaborative approach underpins the program's theory of change, which posits that comprehensive, individualized navigation will lead to improved access to care and better health outcomes.
Expected outcomes and measurable results include a demonstrable reduction in maternal and infant morbidity and mortality rates, particularly among racial and ethnic minority populations. Success will also be measured by the sustained engagement of families with critical services and the achievement of their health and wellness goals. The IDHS anticipates awarding approximately $7,920,000 in total, with individual awards of $660,000, signifying a substantial investment in these outcomes. Eligible applicants, including public or private organizations with a physical presence in Chicago and the required staffing model, are expected to contribute to these measurable improvements, ultimately contributing to the long-term health and well-being of Chicago's families.
