Whether you are becoming a parent for the first time or you are welcoming another child into your family this year, there are several resources that can help you in Sacramento County. If you are pregnant and live in Sacramento County, Maternal Child Adolescent Health (MCAH) has a program for you. MCAH has information and education on how to have the best pregnancy outcome possible, information on child health and development, and can assist parents in obtaining an OB provider or pediatrician.
The goals of MCAH programs are to make sure babies are born healthy and that their mothers are healthy too. The programs aim to provide a safe environment for children and parents of all backgrounds. Those with MCAH also work to make sure all women, children, and their families have equal access to appropriate care.
Because each family is unique, the County has several resources in place to help serve parents and children. Some of the programs available in the County include
African American Perinatal Health,
Black Infant Health,
Nurse-Family Partnership, and
Women, Infants, & Children (WIC). Anyone who is pregnant and lives in Sacramento County and is income eligible can enroll in these programs. If you are not sure which resource is best for you, do not worry. The County has workers who will match you to the program or programs you are eligible for.
The process is streamlined to make it easy for parents to reach out. To get help, call (916) 875-BABY. You will need to state that you are pregnant and in need of assistance. That one call is all you need to make. The County will then match you to resources. You can also complete a referral form and email it to
DHSMCAH@saccounty.net.
Click here for the referral form.
Many who have benefited from MCAH programs say the services have made a positive impact on their lives. A mother who is currently in the Black Infant Health program said having the extra support had a big impact on her.
"Knowing this program existed was amazing and the fact that it focused on Black moms was even better. It was great having support whenever I needed it and being in such a comfortable, safe space," the mother said.
Other MCAH programs have also had successful outcomes. 96% of Nurse-Family Partnership clients who chose to breastfeed were able to successfully do so at birth, which is higher than the national rate. The premature birth rate for Nurse-Family Partnership clients is 6.4%, which is lower that the state and national average. The programs also help mothers focus on their mental health. 100% of African American Perinatal Health clients who screened positive for Perinatal or postpartum mood and anxiety disorders were referred to mental health services.
To find out more about MCAH programs, click here.
