Montana

Montana offers a variety of state and federally-supported programs aimed at enhancing perinatal care and supporting maternal and infant health. Below is a comprehensive overview of these programs:

1. Montana Medicaid for Pregnant Women and HMK Plus (Healthy Montana Kids Plus)

Montana Medicaid provides healthcare coverage to low-income pregnant women during pregnancy and for up to 12 months postpartum. Services include prenatal visits, hospital delivery, postpartum care, and newborn care.
HMK Plus (Healthy Montana Kids Plus) covers low-income children and pregnant women through Montana Medicaid, offering additional support for families.

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

Montana WIC provides nutrition education, breastfeeding support, healthcare referrals, and healthy foods to eligible pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and children up to age five.

1. Breastfeeding Support Programs

Montana supports breastfeeding through a variety of initiatives, including

Montana WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Program: Offers personalized breastfeeding support from trained counselors.

Montana State Breastfeeding Coalition: Provides resources, education, and public awareness campaigns promoting breastfeeding-friendly environments. Learn more

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

American Indian and Alaska Native families in Montana can access maternal and child health services through IHS clinics and tribal health departments. Services include prenatal care, immunizations, breastfeeding support, and pediatric care. Learn more

1. Montana Home Visiting Programs

Montana offers voluntary, evidence-based home visiting programs to support healthy pregnancies, child development, and parenting skills:

• Parents as Teachers (PAT): Focuses on strengthening families and promoting optimal early development.
• Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP): First-time pregnant mothers are paired with registered nurses to provide ongoing support and education.
• SafeCare Augmented: For families at risk of involvement with child protective services.

These initiatives are funded through the federal Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program.

These programs collectively strive to enhance perinatal care and maternal and infant health across Montana, especially in its many rural and tribal communities.