Courtesy of Univera Healthcare

Pregnancy should be a time of joy and anticipation, but for many women, it carries significant risks. According to the CDC, childbirth complications have increased by over 30% across the U.S. Even more concerning, Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related issues—nearly 80% of which are preventable.

So, what actions are being taken? In Western New York, local organizations and partners like Univera Healthcare are stepping up to improve access to care and ensure moms get the support they need, from prenatal visits and education to emotional and social resources.  

A Lifeline for Moms.

One standout initiative is Gerard Place’s Healthy Mom and Baby Program, supported by a three-year grant from Univera Healthcare. Built on three principles—empower, transform, and opportunity—the program offers social, emotional, and medical resources to new and expectant mothers. An inspiring example is Ms. W’s story. A mother of five, she fought substance abuse for years and ultimately lost contact with four of her children. Determined to turn her life around and be present for her youngest son, she committed to sobriety and joined Gerard Place’s program. At first, she was guarded and uncertain. Now, she’s thriving. She actively participates in weekly sessions and even worked with Gerard Place to create a “Mommy Self-Care Plan” to give her and other moms a tangible way to maintain their wellbeing. “By providing social, emotional, and medical support, we help mothers like Ms. W. reclaim hope, strengthen families, and build a foundation for brighter futures,” says David Zapfel, chief executive officer, Gerard Place. Programs like Healthy Mom and Baby don’t just change lives, they save them. 

 Why It Matters.

Maternal health isn’t just about doctor visits. It’s about stability, support, and opportunities. When families have access to housing, education, and emotional resources, they’re better equipped to succeed. Community programs like Healthy Mom and Baby provide that lifeline, reducing disparities and improving outcomes across Western New York.  

The Bigger Picture.

Improving health for moms and babies requires evidence-based practices and consistent follow-through. Univera Healthcare uses nationally recognized quality measures to help track and support key aspects of care, including:

  • Prenatal and postpartum care: Early visits and prompt follow-up after delivery 
  • Immunizations: Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough) (Tdap) during pregnancy 
  • Mental Health: Postpartum depression screening  

To translate these measures into real care, Univera Healthcare supports:
 

  • Bright Beginnings: Nurse care managers and pharmacy support for high-risk pregnancies 
  • Doula Support: Emotional and physical assistance throughout pregnancy 
  • Community Partnerships: Increasing access to maternal care in urban and rural areas
     

Every mother deserves more than just a safe delivery; she also deserves support, dignity, and a healthy start for her family. By combining medical care with emotional and social resources, programs like Healthy Mom and Baby demonstrate that change is possible. And, when communities unite, we build brighter futures for moms, babies, and generations to come.