5 - Better Birth Outcomes Program

High-risk pregnant individuals in areas of the state with higher-than-average Medicaid costs associated with poor birth outcomes and with higher-than-average numbers of Medicaid individuals delivering premature infants are enrolled in the Better Birth Outcomes (BBO) program.

BBO offers a standardized prenatal education curriculum that emphasizes the importance of regular prenatal medical care visits; home visits each trimester active in the program; and monthly engagement with the BBO case manager for continued prenatal education, care coordination and communication with the client's prenatal medical provider. The program's emphasis on reproductive life planning and health benefits associated with the delay of subsequent pregnancy impacts Illinois' infant mortality rate and rates of prematurity in Medicaid-eligible pregnant individuals. Individuals are enrolled in BBO through the duration of pregnancy up to six weeks postpartum. Because the pregnant individuals that are the target population for these services are not individuals who typically tend to seek out early prenatal medical care or other needed services, agencies participating in the BBO program are expected to develop an annual outreach plan.

5.1 - Staffing Qualifications

5.2 - Eligibility

5.3 - Content

5.4 - Case Closure