Maternal and Child Health Policy

Maternal and Child Health (MCH) is a cornerstone of public health policy, encompassing the well-being of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, as well as the health and development of infants and children. MCH policies address prenatal care, infant mortality, birth outcomes, access to pediatric care, maternal mental health, and social determinants of health that impact early childhood development.

Across the U.S., disparities in maternal and child health outcomes persist, particularly among communities of color, rural populations, and those with limited access to care. As a result, this area has seen significant federal, state, and judicial focus to improve services, reduce mortality, expand Medicaid postpartum coverage, and ensure equitable access to care.

Healthcare policy in this area includes laws such as the Maternal and Child Health Services Block Grant, expansions under the Affordable Care Act, Supreme Court decisions affecting reproductive healthcare, and executive orders supporting maternal mental health and rural access.

By tracking policy developments across legislation, court rulings, and executive actions, we can better understand where gaps remain—and what progress is being made—to support mothers, babies, and families nationwide.