Understanding the Maternal and Child Health Bureau (MCHB) and Its Programs

Last updated 2 months ago. Our resources are updated regularly but please keep in mind that links, programs, policies, and contact information do change.

The Maternal and Child Health Bureau (MCHB), a part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), strengthens public health systems to meet the needs of America’s mothers, children, and families.

Reaching approximately 59 million individuals annually, including pregnant people, infants, children, and youth—especially those with special health care needs—MCHB works to ensure physical and mental well-being across the lifespan.

MCHB: Mission, History, and Structure

Mission and Vision

The core purpose of MCHB is clearly defined by its mission: “To improve the health and well-being of America’s mothers, children, and families.” Complementing this is the vision: “An America where all mothers, children, and families thrive and reach their full potential.”

To achieve this mission and vision, MCHB focuses on four overarching goals:

• Assure Access: Ensure all Maternal and Child Health (MCH) populations can access high-quality health services.
• Optimize Health: Improve health outcomes for all MCH populations.
• Strengthen Capacity: Build public health capacity and develop the MCH workforce.
• Maximize Impact: Lead effectively through partnerships and responsible stewardship of resources.

MCHB’s work centers on specific populations across different life stages: women of childbearing age, pregnant women, infants, children (including adolescents), and children and youth with special health care needs (CYSHCN). While these are the primary focus, services may also benefit others, such as fathers and adult men and women receiving care or education as parents/guardians.

Historical Roots

MCHB’s origins trace back over a century to the creation of the U.S. Children’s Bureau in 1912, established with the goal “To serve all children, to try to work out standards of care and protection which shall give to every child fair chance in the world.”

A pivotal moment came with the Social Security Act of 1935, which established federal support for state-level maternal and child health services through Title V, “Grants to the States for Maternal and Child Welfare.” Initially administered by the Children’s Bureau, these grants aimed to improve health services, particularly for low-income and rural populations, and provide care for children with crippling conditions.

Over the decades, the administration of these programs shifted within the federal government. The Children’s Bureau moved to the Social Security Administration in 1945 (within the Federal Security Agency, which later became HHS). In 1969, the Children’s Bureau was largely dismantled, and its MCH functions moved into the Public Health Service.

A significant legislative change occurred with the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 (OBRA ’81), which consolidated seven Title V categorical programs into the MCH Services Block Grant. This shift aimed to give states more flexibility in using federal funds to address their unique MCH needs. The modern MCHB was established in 1990 when the MCH division separated to become its own bureau within HRSA.

Organizational Structure

MCHB is one of six bureaus within the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), which itself is an agency of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS). HRSA is the primary federal agency focused on improving health care for geographically isolated, economically, or medically vulnerable populations.

MCHB, headquartered in Rockville, Maryland, leads the nation’s efforts specifically targeting the health of mothers, children, and families within this broader HRSA mission. As of October 2018, the Associate Administrator leading MCHB is Dr. Michael Warren.

MCHB’s internal structure reflects its diverse responsibilities. It is led by the Office of the Associate Administrator, supported by a Deputy Associate Administrator and Executive Officer. Recent reorganizations established an Office of Strategy, Innovation, and External Affairs and a dedicated Division of Women’s Health. The Bureau comprises several key divisions and offices, each focusing on specific areas:

• Office of the Associate Administrator: Provides overall leadership and policy direction for MCHB programs.
• Office of Policy and Planning: Develops MCHB policy and program plans.
• Office of Strategy, Innovation, and External Affairs: Handles strategic planning, communications, external engagement, and program development.
• Office of Operations and Management: Manages administrative functions.
• Division of Services for Children with Special Health Needs: Focuses on improving health and quality of life for CYSHCN.
• Division of Child, Adolescent, and Family Health: Addresses the health needs of children, adolescents, and families.
• Division of MCH Workforce Development: Oversees programs to train and support the MCH workforce.
• Division of Healthy Start and Perinatal Services: Leads programs focused on maternal, infant, family, and women’s health, particularly for high-risk populations, including infant mortality reduction and disparity elimination.
• Division of State and Community Health: Works with state and community partners, likely administering the Title V block grant.
• Division of Home Visiting and Early Childhood Systems: Focuses on home visiting programs and early childhood system development.
• Office of Epidemiology and Research: Conducts research and epidemiological studies.
• Division of Women’s Health: Specifically addresses women’s health issues.

This structure allows MCHB to manage its broad portfolio, from large block grants to specific initiatives focused on particular populations, health issues, research, and workforce development.

Core MCHB Approaches

MCHB employs several core strategies and philosophies that underpin its diverse program portfolio. These approaches ensure a comprehensive and equitable focus on improving the health of mothers, children, and families across the nation.

Life Course Approach and Focus on Equity

A fundamental principle guiding MCHB’s work is the life course approach. This perspective recognizes that health develops over a lifetime, and experiences at each stage—from preconception through adulthood—influence future well-being.

MCHB supports programs that intervene at critical periods, promoting family-centered, evidence-based methods. This includes funding a wide range of providers (doctors, nurses, community health workers, home visitors) and innovations like telehealth to overcome access barriers.

Central to this approach is a commitment to health equity, striving for “optimal health for all.” MCHB aims to ensure that all MCH populations have just and fair opportunities to thrive. This translates into concrete actions: investing resources in underserved populations and communities, using data to measure and address health disparities, and ensuring MCHB’s own organization reflects the diversity of the people it serves.

The focus extends beyond direct medical care, acknowledging that factors like economic stability, education, community context, and neighborhood environments significantly impact health outcomes. MCHB actively works to address these social determinants of health through various program strategies.

Data-Driven Decision Making and Leadership

MCHB emphasizes the use of data and research to guide its efforts and measure progress. The Bureau collects data annually at state and national levels on key health outcomes (like maternal/infant health, childhood obesity) and gathers program-level data to link interventions to these outcomes. This data-driven approach allows MCHB to track progress, identify areas needing improvement, and demonstrate the impact of its investments.

Beyond funding and data collection, MCHB exerts leadership by providing expertise and guidance to state public health agencies, national organizations, and community stakeholders. It supports the development of national guidelines, such as the Preventive Guidelines and Screenings for Women, Children, and Youth, and responds proactively to emerging health needs.

MCHB also coordinates influential HHS advisory committees, including the Secretary’s Advisory Committee on Infant and Maternal Mortality (ACIMM) and the Advisory Committee on Heritable Disorders in Newborns and Children (ACHDNC), shaping national policy recommendations.

Partnership and Engagement

Collaboration is key to MCHB’s strategy. The Bureau actively engages with states, communities, families, and youth, recognizing them as experts in their own needs. Listening to the lived experiences of individuals and families is a core principle, ensuring that programs and policies are responsive and effective.

This partnership approach extends to working with diverse stakeholders, including state and local health officials, legislators, community organizations, academic institutions, and providers, to improve public health systems collectively.

Major MCHB Programs and Initiatives

MCHB administers a wide range of programs designed to improve health across the life course. While the specific portfolio evolves, several major programs form the backbone of its efforts. An A-Z list of programs can be explored on the MCHB website.

Title V Maternal and Child Health Services Block Grant

The Title V MCH Services Block Grant is MCHB’s largest and oldest program, representing a cornerstone federal-state partnership dating back to the Social Security Act of 1935. Often referred to simply as “Title V,” this program provides formula-based funding to all 50 states and nine jurisdictions (including territories and the District of Columbia). Its primary purpose is to enable states to design and implement activities that address their unique MCH population needs, improve access to quality MCH services, reduce infant mortality and child morbidity, and increase access to preventive care.

How it Works

States receive federal funds based on a formula considering historical allocations and the proportion of low-income children. States must match federal funds (typically $3 state for every $4 federal) and maintain their own spending levels. This block grant structure provides significant flexibility, allowing states to tailor programs.

There are requirements: states must use at least 30% of federal funds for preventive and primary care services for children and another 30% for services specific to CYSHCN. States conduct comprehensive five-year needs assessments to identify priorities and develop annual action plans submitted to MCHB.

Populations Served

The grant primarily serves pregnant women, infants, children (through age 21), and CYSHCN, particularly those with low incomes or limited access to care. In practice, Title V-supported activities, such as public health infrastructure improvements, benefit broader populations. It is estimated that Title V programs reach the vast majority of pregnant women (93%) and infants (99%) in the U.S., along with about 60% of all children.

Services Supported

Title V funds support a wide array of activities categorized as:

• Direct Health Care Services: Primary care, specialist visits, inpatient services for CYSHCN, therapies (occupational, physical, speech), prescription drugs, mental/behavioral health services, dental/vision care, durable medical equipment.
• Enabling Services: Translation, case management/care coordination, health education, outreach, eligibility assistance, transportation, support for health facilities.
• Public Health Services and Systems: Policy development, health promotion campaigns (e.g., newborn screening, safe sleep), program implementation/evaluation, workforce development, quality assurance.

Title V often acts as a “gap-filler” and payor-of-last-resort for services not covered by other programs like Medicaid or CHIP.

Accessing Services

Individuals and families typically access Title V-funded services through their state or local health departments or affiliated community providers, rather than directly through MCHB. Contacting the state MCH program (often searchable online as “State Maternal and Child Health Program”) is the best starting point. The Title V Information System (TVIS) website provides state contact information.

Impact

Title V aims to improve maternal and child health outcomes nationally by strengthening state and local public health infrastructure, ensuring access to essential services, promoting prevention, and addressing health disparities. It supports core functions like resource development, capacity building, and data collection that benefit the entire MCH population.

The overall MCH Services Block Grant authorization under Title V also includes funding streams for Special Projects of Regional and National Significance (SPRANS) and Community Integrated Service Systems (CISS). SPRANS grants fund projects addressing national/regional priorities, research, training, and workforce development, while CISS grants support local projects to integrate community services, often focusing on home visiting, case management, and areas with high infant mortality. While the State Block Grant receives the largest share, funding proportions can shift based on annual appropriations.

Healthy Start

The Healthy Start initiative is a community-based program specifically focused on reducing infant mortality and improving perinatal outcomes, particularly in communities experiencing significant racial and ethnic disparities. Unlike Title V’s formula grants to states, Healthy Start provides direct funding to local organizations (community-based, public, private, tribal) in areas with infant mortality rates at least 1.5 times the national average. As of 2024, 101 projects operate in 36 states, DC, and Puerto Rico.

Services

Healthy Start projects enroll women, their partners, infants, and children up to 18 months. They offer comprehensive, tailored care coordination and services, including:

• Clinical services (well-woman care, maternity care, doula services)
• Screening and referrals (perinatal depression, substance use, intimate partner violence)
• Case management and care coordination
• Health education (pregnancy, parenting, nutrition, fatherhood)
• Linkages to enabling services (transportation, housing, WIC, Medicaid)
• Immunization promotion
• Interconception care (care between pregnancies)

Community Consortia

A key feature is the requirement for each project to have a Community Consortium involving program participants, residents, providers, public health officials, faith leaders, and others. These consortia help address service gaps, ensure cultural appropriateness, raise awareness, and influence local policies affecting social determinants of health.

Eligibility & Access

Eligibility is generally based on living in a designated Healthy Start project area. Individuals can enroll directly with their local project. Organizations apply for funding through specific Notices of Funding Opportunity (NOFOs) when available.

Impact & Effectiveness

Healthy Start aims to eliminate disparities in infant mortality and adverse perinatal outcomes. Evaluations have shown participant satisfaction and improved rates for breastfeeding and safe infant sleep practices compared to similar low-income populations, potentially linked to high rates of health education provided by the program.

However, challenges remain, particularly in reducing low birth weight disparities and addressing factors like smoking. The program’s focus on community engagement and addressing social determinants reflects an understanding that improving birth outcomes requires multi-level interventions.

Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program

The Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program supports pregnant people and parents with young children (up to kindergarten entry) by partnering them with trained home visitors. The program focuses particularly on families living in communities facing barriers to positive health and developmental outcomes. HRSA administers the program in partnership with the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), with HRSA funding states and jurisdictions, and ACF funding tribes.

Goals and Services

MIECHV aims to:

• Improve maternal and child health
• Improve school readiness and achievement
• Improve family economic self-sufficiency
• Prevent child injuries, abuse, and neglect
• Prevent crime and domestic violence
• Improve coordination with community resources

Home visitors work with families to set and achieve goals, providing support such as healthy pregnancy habits, advice on breastfeeding and safe sleep, positive parenting techniques (reading, playing), planning for education/employment, and connections to resources like WIC, Medicaid, housing, and job training.

Evidence-Based Models

A key requirement is that state programs must implement evidence-based home visiting models that have been reviewed and approved through the Home Visiting Evidence of Effectiveness (HomVEE) review process. This ensures that federal funds support approaches with demonstrated effectiveness. States choose models that fit their community needs.

Funding and Eligibility

MIECHV provides formula and matching grants to states, territories, and eligible non-profits to create statewide networks. Funding has increased significantly following a bipartisan reauthorization in 2023. Families eligible for services are typically pregnant individuals or parents with young children residing in designated at-risk communities, though specific criteria may vary by state and model.

Accessing Services

Families interested in home visiting should contact their state or local health department or search for “home visiting program” to find local providers. Application procedures for funding are directed at states/jurisdictions via NOFOs.

Impact and Evaluation

MIECHV programs are required to report performance data across six benchmark areas. National evaluations like the Mother and Infant Home Visiting Program Evaluation (MIHOPE) assess the program’s effectiveness. Recent reports show progress, such as high rates of caregiver screening for depression and increased postpartum visit attendance. Success stories highlight positive impacts on parenting skills, child development, and family well-being.

Programs for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs

MCHB places significant emphasis on improving systems of care for the estimated 13.5 million Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN) in the U.S. CYSHCN are defined as infants, children, and adolescents who have or are at increased risk for chronic physical, developmental, behavioral, or emotional conditions and require health and related services beyond that required by children generally. MCHB’s Division of Services for Children with Special Health Needs (DSCSHN) leads these efforts.

The goal is to ensure CYSHCN and their families receive coordinated, comprehensive, family-centered care that allows children to thrive. Key program areas include:

Systems Building and Integration

MCHB funds initiatives like the Advancing Systems of Services for CYSHCN program, which supports national resource centers focused on improving access to medical homes, promoting cost savings, and facilitating the transition to adult care. The National Center for a System of Services for CYSHCN, housed at the American Academy of Pediatrics, works to advance the framework outlined in the Blueprint for Change, providing resources, training, and technical assistance to state Title V programs and partners.

These efforts reflect a commitment to moving beyond fragmented services towards integrated systems that are easier for families to navigate and more effective in meeting complex needs.

Family Support and Engagement

Recognizing families as essential partners, MCHB funds Family-to-Family Health Information Centers (F2Fs) in nearly all states and territories. Staffed primarily by family members of CYSHCN, F2Fs provide peer support, information, and assistance navigating complex systems like health insurance, school services (IEPs), and community resources. They empower families and help ensure family voices are included in system improvements. The Family Engagement and Leadership in Systems of Care program further supports family involvement.

Newborn Screening

MCHB plays a critical role in ensuring early identification of conditions through newborn screening. It funds state NBS programs, supports the Newborn Screening Information Center for families and providers, funds the National Center for Newborn Screening System Excellence (NBS Excel/NewSteps) for technical assistance to states, and coordinates the Advisory Committee on Heritable Disorders in Newborns and Children (ACHDNC), which recommends conditions for the national Recommended Uniform Screening Panel (RUSP).

Early detection through NBS is crucial for timely intervention and better outcomes for CYSHCN.

Specific Conditions

MCHB funds programs targeting specific conditions prevalent among CYSHCN:

• Sickle Cell Disease: Programs include the Sickle Cell Disease Treatment Demonstration Program (regional networks/centers of care), the Sickle Cell Disease Newborn Screening Follow-up Program (community-based support), and the Hemoglobinopathies National Coordinating Center. These aim to improve access to expert care and support for the approximately 1 in 4 individuals with SCD served by these programs.
• Hearing Loss: The Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) program supports state systems for newborn hearing screening, diagnosis, and connection to early intervention services to improve language acquisition. National centers provide technical assistance (ICC at Gallaudet), family leadership support (FL3 at Hands & Voices), and provider education (PEC at AAP).
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) & Other Developmental Disabilities (DD): See section below on Autism CARES Act programs.
• Genetics Services: Programs support integrating genetics into clinical care, regional genetics networks, and family support.
• Hemophilia: The National Hemophilia Program supports coordinating centers and regional networks.

Transition to Adulthood

Recognizing the challenges youth face moving from pediatric to adult systems, MCHB funds initiatives like the Transition for Youth with Autism and/or Epilepsy program. This program supports demonstration projects and a national coordinating center (AMCHP) to develop and test strategies for improving health and social system supports for youth (ages 13-26) with complex needs during this critical period.

Research

The CYSHCN Research Network (CYSHCNet) is funded to conduct multi-site research addressing critical knowledge gaps related to systems of care for CYSHCN and their families, guided by the Blueprint for Change.

Access to CYSHCN services often involves contacting the state Title V CYSHCN program director or specific programs like F2Fs.

Autism CARES Act Programs

MCHB administers several programs authorized under the Autism Collaboration, Accountability, Research, Education, and Support (CARES) Act, most recently reauthorized in 2024 (Public Law 118-180). This legislation is the primary source of federal funding for autism research, services, training, and monitoring across HHS agencies (NIH, CDC, HRSA). MCHB’s Autism CARES programs focus on improving care and outcomes for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities (DDs) through workforce training, research, and systems development.

Key MCHB Autism CARES initiatives include:

Workforce Training Programs

• Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND): Provides long-term, graduate-level interdisciplinary training to prepare leaders in neurodevelopmental disabilities. There are 60 LEND programs across the U.S. and territories, often housed within universities or University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDDs). Trainees gain clinical expertise, leadership skills, and experience working across disciplines and with families. Access is typically through application to a specific LEND program site.
• Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics (DBP) Training Program: Supports fellowship programs to train pediatricians as leaders and clinicians specializing in DBP, addressing the shortage of specialists who can diagnose and manage ASD/DD and behavioral concerns. Programs provide clinical services and training for fellows, residents, and medical students. Access is through DBP fellowship programs at participating institutions. The CARES Act prioritizes programs in rural/underserved areas.

Research Initiatives

MCHB funds research to advance the evidence base for interventions and services:

• Autism Research Consortium (Autism RC): Established in FY25, this program merges previous research networks (like AIR-P and AIR-B) and investigator-initiated programs into a national group focusing on MCHB priority areas, including translating research into practice through partnerships with community organizations and families.
• Autism Single Investigator Innovation Program (SIIP): Funds specific projects like the Autism Longitudinal Data Project (ALDP) using existing data, and the Autism Transitions Research Project (ATRP) focusing on adolescent/young adult transitions.
• Autism Field-Initiated Innovative Research Studies (Autism FIRST): Supports field-initiated research addressing critical gaps.
• Autism Secondary Data Analysis Research (Autism SDAR): Funds research using existing national datasets or administrative records.

Technical Assistance and Systems Support

• Autism CARES Act National Interdisciplinary Training Resource Center (ITAC): Operated by the Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD), ITAC provides technical assistance, training, and resources to support LEND and DBP programs.
• Transition for Youth With Autism and/or Epilepsy: (Described previously under CYSHCN) This program specifically addresses transition challenges for youth with ASD and/or epilepsy.

These programs collectively aim to build workforce capacity, generate evidence, improve screening and diagnosis, and enhance systems of care for individuals with ASD and other DDs across the lifespan, contributing significantly to the national response coordinated by the Autism CARES Act. Eligibility for services or training typically depends on the specific program (e.g., graduate student for LEND, pediatrician for DBP fellowship, researcher for research grants).

Adolescent and Young Adult Health Programs

MCHB recognizes adolescence (ages 10-17) and young adulthood (ages 18-25) as critical developmental periods with unique health needs. The Bureau supports programs aimed at strengthening public health capacity and infrastructure to improve health, well-being, and access to care for this population, with a focus on eliminating disparities.

Key initiatives include:

National Resource Centers

MCHB funds the Adolescent and Young Adult Health National Resource Center Program (often referred to as AYAH-NRC or similar names, e.g., National Center for Adolescent and Young Adult Health and Well-Being at AAP or the National Adolescent and Young Adult Health Information Center at UCSF).

These centers support state Title V programs and health professionals by providing technical assistance, training, resources, and promoting systems integration across health, school, and community settings. Technical assistance topics include improving systems of care, adolescent well-visits, mental health, bullying, substance use, equity, and transition to adulthood.

This focus on systems integration and providing support to state programs and professionals highlights an understanding that improving AYAH requires coordinated efforts across multiple sectors and specifically equipped personnel.

Workforce Development

The Leadership Education in Adolescent Health (LEAH) program prepares leaders in AYAH through interdisciplinary graduate and post-graduate training across disciplines like medicine, nursing, nutrition, psychology, and social work. LEAH programs, funded in several locations (e.g., CHLA, UAB, UMN, UCSF), aim to improve care quality and access by training professionals for leadership roles in clinical care, public health, research, and advocacy. Access is via application to specific LEAH training sites.

Preventive Services and Guidelines

MCHB supports Bright Futures, which develops national guidelines for pediatric well-child visits from birth to age 21, informing preventive services covered under the ACA. Promoting the adolescent well-visit is a key focus, addressed by Title V National Performance Measure #10. Despite efforts, data show most adolescents still do not receive annual well-visits.

Mental Health Focus

Addressing youth mental health is a significant priority within MCHB’s AYAH portfolio, driven by concerns about rising rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide. Initiatives include expanding school-based mental health services, supporting the Pediatric Mental Health Care Access (PMHCA) teleconsultation program expansion, and providing resources through the AYAH National Resource Center.

Other Key Initiatives

Beyond the major programs detailed above, MCHB supports several other important initiatives:

Maternal and Child Health Policy Innovation Program

This program funds diverse organizations to develop, implement, and evaluate innovative state and local policies addressing social determinants of health (e.g., housing, food security, access to coverage) and emerging MCH issues like congenital syphilis, environmental threats, Medicaid redetermination, and vaccine promotion.

MCH PIP works with state/local health officials, legislatures, and other agencies (housing, transportation) to foster policy change. Past projects focused on substance use/mental health access and maternal mortality among Medicaid beneficiaries.

This program exemplifies MCHB’s strategy of working “upstream” to influence policies that shape the conditions for health, complementing direct service programs by addressing root causes of inequities. Resources developed include policy briefs and legislative trackers on topics like maternal mental health, rural access, doula care, and home visiting reimbursement.

Access program details at the MCH Policy Innovation Program website.

Women’s Preventive Services Initiative

WPSI develops and disseminates national clinical guidelines for preventive services specific to women across the lifespan. These evidence-based recommendations cover screenings (e.g., anxiety, interpersonal violence, breast/cervical cancer, diabetes, STIs), counseling (e.g., STI prevention), and services (e.g., contraception, breastfeeding support).

A key impact is that services recommended by WPSI with an ‘A’ or ‘B’ grade must be covered by most private health insurance plans without cost-sharing under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). This directly improves access to essential preventive care for millions of women. Guidelines are updated periodically based on new evidence.

Find guidelines at the HRSA Women’s Guidelines website.

Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health

AIM is a national quality improvement initiative focused on reducing maternal mortality and severe maternal morbidity (SMM) by promoting the adoption of evidence-based “patient safety bundles” in hospitals, birth centers, outpatient clinics, and community settings.

These bundles are sets of best practices for managing conditions like obstetric hemorrhage, severe hypertension, sepsis, cardiac conditions, substance use disorder, and mental health conditions during pregnancy and postpartum.

MCHB funds AIM through three components: AIM Capacity (state-level funding to implement bundles), AIM Technical Assistance Center (develops bundles, supports states, builds partnerships), and AIM Community Care Initiative (develops/tests bundles for outpatient/community settings).

As of June 2024, AIM initiatives were active in 49 states, DC, and Puerto Rico, involving over 2,000 birthing facilities. Access program details at the Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health website.

State Maternal Health Innovation Program

This program provides grants to states to establish Maternal Health Task Forces, improve maternal health data/surveillance (often collaborating with Maternal Mortality Review Committees – MMRCs), and implement innovative strategies to improve maternal health service delivery and reduce disparities, particularly for populations disproportionately affected by mortality/SMM.

Funded states develop strategic plans based on needs assessments and community input. Access program details via HRSA/Grants.gov when funding is available.

Rural Maternity and Obstetrics Management Strategies Program

RMOMS specifically targets improving access to and quality of maternity care in rural areas. It funds collaborative networks to develop innovative and sustainable service delivery models, often leveraging telehealth and coordinating care across the perinatal continuum. Eligibility includes entities providing care in rural/underserved areas or to tribal populations. Access program details via HRSA/Grants.gov when funding is available.

National Maternal Mental Health Hotline

Launched in 2022, this free, confidential, 24/7 hotline provides mental health support via call or text (1-833-TLC-MAMA / 1-833-852-6262) for pregnant and postpartum individuals and their families. Counselors (including licensed providers, certified doulas, peer specialists) offer real-time support, information, and referrals in English, Spanish, and over 60 other languages via interpreters.

It is not a crisis line (988 is for suicidal crisis) but provides crucial support for stress, anxiety, depression, and feeling overwhelmed. The hotline has received tens of thousands of contacts since its launch.

Learn more or order materials at the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline website.

Advisory Committees

As mentioned earlier, MCHB coordinates the Advisory Committee on Infant and Maternal Mortality (ACIMM) and the Advisory Committee on Heritable Disorders in Newborns and Children (ACHDNC). These committees provide expert advice to the HHS Secretary on reducing mortality/morbidity and on newborn screening policies, respectively, influencing national standards and priorities.

Data, Research, and Resources

A core function of MCHB is generating, analyzing, and disseminating data and research to inform MCH practice, policy, and program development at national, state, and local levels. The Bureau invests significantly in building research capacity within the MCH field and ensuring that evidence guides decision-making.

MCHB’s Data Ecosystem

MCHB oversees a complex ecosystem of data collection efforts, providing critical information on the health and well-being of mothers, children, and families. This infrastructure serves not only MCHB’s internal monitoring needs but also provides foundational data for the broader MCH field, including researchers, policymakers, advocates, and state/local programs. Key components include:

National Survey of Children’s Health

This annual survey, funded and directed by MCHB and conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau, is a primary source of national and state-level data on the health of children aged 0-17. It covers a wide range of topics including physical and emotional health, health care access and quality (including medical home), insurance status, and the influence of family, neighborhood, school, and social contexts.

Data are collected from parents/caregivers. Public use data files and interactive data queries are available through the Data Resource Center for Child & Adolescent Health (DRC) website. The Census Bureau also provides access to microdata files.

Title V Information System

This system serves as the repository for data reported annually by the 59 state and jurisdictional Title V MCH Block Grant programs. TVIS includes state applications/annual reports, five-year needs assessments, financial data, information on populations served, and performance data related to National Outcome Measures (NOMs) and National Performance Measures (NPMs) across various domains (e.g., maternal health, infant health, child health, adolescent health, CYSHCN).

The public can access state reports, national/state snapshots, and explore performance measure data via the TVIS website.

Discretionary Grant Information System

MCHB uses DGIS to collect performance and financial data from most of its discretionary grant programs (i.e., grants awarded competitively, excluding the Title V formula grant). Grantees report regularly throughout their project period on activities, people reached, and progress towards goals. This system helps MCHB monitor the performance of specific initiatives like Healthy Start, training programs, and research grants.

MIECHV Performance Reporting

The MIECHV program has specific performance reporting requirements tracked through dedicated systems. Awardees report quarterly and annually on participant demographics, service utilization, and progress across six benchmark areas with 19 performance measures. Data are used for continuous quality improvement and program evaluation.

Maternal and Child Health Jurisdictional Survey

To gather data in the U.S. territories and freely associated states where national surveys like NSCH may not reach, MCHB funds the MCH-JS. This survey collects information on maternal and child health status, health care access, and related factors, enabling these jurisdictions to meet Title V reporting requirements and track progress.

Maternal and Infant Health Mapping Tool

This online tool allows users to visualize county-level data on various maternal and infant health indicators (e.g., low birth weight, infant mortality), demographic characteristics, and the location of health resources (e.g., health centers, MCHB grant sites). It is designed to help decision-makers understand needs, plan programs, and target resources effectively.

MCHB also invests in research, funding projects to advance national priorities, responding to emerging issues (like COVID-19 impacts), convening research networks (e.g., CYSHCN-RN, Autism RC), and training MCH researchers and epidemiologists through various programs.

Finding Information: MCHB Publications and Resource Libraries

MCHB makes a wealth of information accessible through its website and dedicated resource portals, supporting knowledge translation for the MCH workforce, researchers, policymakers, and the public. This commitment to dissemination helps bridge the gap between data/research and practical application.

Key resources include:

• MCHB Data & Research Page: The central hub provides an overview and links to MCHB’s data systems, research investments, publications, and tools.
• MCHB Publications Page: This page lists research articles, reports, and other publications authored by MCHB staff. A separate page links to publications using NSCH data.
• MCH Navigator: A portal offering curated online learning resources (webcasts, modules, lectures) for MCH professionals, including tools for assessing training needs.
• MCH Digital Library (Georgetown University): A comprehensive digital library serving as a knowledge base for the Title V workforce and the Strengthen the Evidence for MCH Programs initiative. It includes current evidence-based resources, seminal MCH materials, topical knowledge paths, and toolkits.
• MCH Data Connect (Harvard): An online catalog of MCH datasets, interactive tools, and data resources.
• MCH Life Course Toolbox (CityMatCH): Provides information, strategies, and tools for integrating the life course perspective into MCH work.
• Fact Sheets and Infographics: MCHB provides concise summaries and visual data representations on various programs (e.g., MIECHV State Fact Sheets, Healthy Start Fact Sheet) and topics (e.g., NSCH data briefs on specific populations or issues). These are often found on program-specific pages or a dedicated fact sheet page (if available).

Key MCHB Data Sources & Tools

How to Connect with MCHB Programs and Services

Understanding how to access the services and resources supported by MCHB is crucial for families, providers, and communities.

Accessing Services

It is important to understand that MCHB primarily operates by funding other organizations—such as state health agencies, local community-based programs, universities, and health centers—which then deliver services directly to the public. Consequently, individuals and families seeking services typically need to connect with these state or local entities, not directly with MCHB or HRSA in Washington D.C. This decentralized structure allows programs to be tailored to local needs but requires users to know where to look for assistance.

Here is general guidance for finding common MCHB-supported services:

• Title V Services: Since the Title V Block Grant funds state MCH programs, the best starting point is your state’s official Maternal and Child Health program, usually located within the state health department. You can search online for “State Maternal and Child Health Program” or use the state contacts list available on the TVIS website. Title V supports a wide range of services, often focusing on core public health functions, preventive care, services for CYSHCN, and filling gaps not covered by insurance.
• Healthy Start: This program operates through local projects in specific high-need communities. To find out if there is a project near you and how to enroll, search for local Healthy Start programs or check the HRSA website for a site locator tool.
• MIECHV Home Visiting: Home visiting programs are managed through state-level networks. Contact your state or local health department or search for “home visiting program” to find providers and eligibility information in your area.
• Services for CYSHCN: Your state Title V CYSHCN program is a key resource. Many states also have dedicated helplines. Family-to-Family Health Information Centers (F2Fs) are crucial resources offering peer support and navigation assistance; find your state’s F2F center via the Family Voices website.
• General Assistance: Your local health department or community health centers (find federally supported centers at Find a Health Center) can often provide information and referrals. Resources like the 2-1-1 hotline (dial 2-1-1 or visit 211.org) connect people to local health and human services. General government benefit finders like USA.gov or your state’s social service agency website can also provide information on various assistance programs.

Key Contact Information

While direct services are typically accessed locally, MCHB and HRSA provide some central points of contact:

National Maternal Mental Health Hotline

• Call or Text: 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262)
• TTY: Use your preferred relay service or dial 711, then 1-833-852-6262
• Note: Free, confidential, 24/7 support for pregnant/postpartum individuals and families. It is NOT a crisis line.

General HRSA Information/Support

• Phone: 1-877-464-4772 (Handles grants/EHB support, health center program support; may direct other inquiries)
• HRSA Website: www.hrsa.gov
• Contact Page (Includes forms for specific program areas)
• Mailing Address (HRSA HQ): 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20857 USA

Press/Media Inquiries

• Phone: 301-443-3376
• Email: [email protected]

Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Requests

• Phone: 301-443-2865
• Email: [email protected]
• Webpage: HRSA FOIA

For specific program inquiries, navigating through the MCHB website to the relevant program page often provides more targeted contact information or links to implementing partners.

Our articles make government information more accessible. Please consult a qualified professional for financial, legal, or health advice specific to your circumstances.