Maine

Maine's Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) offers a variety of state-sponsored programs aimed at supporting maternal, infant, and child health. Here is a comprehensive list of these programs:

1. MaineCare for Pregnant Women

MaineCare, the state's Medicaid program, provides health coverage to eligible low-income pregnant individuals during pregnancy and extends up to 12 months postpartum. Covered services include prenatal visits, labor and delivery, and postpartum care. Children born to MaineCare-eligible mothers automatically receive benefits for one year. Eligibility is based on income and residency status. Learn more

1. Maine Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program

The Maine WIC Program provides nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and access to healthy foods for eligible pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and children under five. The program aims to improve health outcomes by providing essential nutrients during critical stages of development. Learn more

1. Breastfeeding Support Programs

Maine provides various breastfeeding resources, including

• Maine CDC WIC Nutrition Program: Offers breast pump loans and breastfeeding support.
• MaineHealth: Provides lactation support services to assist new mothers.
• Maine State Breastfeeding Coalition: Offers resources and a directory of lactation consultants and support groups.

1. Maine Home Visiting Programs

Maine Families offers free, voluntary in-home parent education for families with children aged 0-5. Trained professionals visit homes to support positive outcomes for children, increase family self-sufficiency, and create thriving communities. The program utilizes evidence-based models such as:
a. Maine Families
Maine Families offers home visiting services to all families expecting or with a new baby at home. Certified Family Visitors provide information, encouragement, and support on health, nutrition, safety, development, and family well-being.

b. Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP)
The Nurse-Family Partnership is a free program that connects first-time mothers with registered nurses who provide guidance on maternal health, child development, and parenting skills.

c. Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program
Supports the implementation of evidence-based home visiting services for expectant and new parents with children through kindergarten entry.

1. Indian Health Service (IHS) Maternal and Child Health Program

The IHS Maternal and Child Health program aims to increase access to safe, quality care for American Indian/Alaska Native pregnant women and children. It provides resources and clinical guidelines to support maternal and child health. Learn more

1. Children with Special Health Needs (CSHN) Program

Supports children and youth with special healthcare needs by offering resources and care coordination services. Learn more

1. MaineMOM Program

Aims to improve care for pregnant and postpartum individuals with opioid use disorder and their infants by integrating maternal and substance use treatment services. Learn more

1. Help Me Grow Maine

Provides a free information line linking families and professionals to resources on child development, pregnancy, and community services for children up to age 8. Learn more

These programs collectively work to enhance the health and well-being of mothers, infants, and children in Maine by providing essential services, education, and support.