The Partnership is advocating for programs that focus on new and expectant families. Why? Because they save money. For example, medical costs related to low birthweight babies can skyrocket for Medicaid-covered patients. An ounce of prevention for pregnant mothers can make a huge difference in reducing these costs.
Some of our nation’s highest costs find their roots in the first years of life, in some cases before a child is even born. Child abuse, alcohol and drug addiction, poverty, school failure and crime often begin in early childhood when prevention programs are least available but can have the greatest impact.
When a program is proven, then it is worth expanding. With Ohio’s excellent home visiting programs, early childhood professionals play a leading role.
• They counsel parents, grandparents and siblings on taking care of babies.
• They provide personalized sessions that give practical advice.
• They answer questions about health, nutrition and babies’ development.
• They coach parents on responsibility and being good parents.
