The initiative aims to reduce gaps in access to care and improve maternal health outcomes through a whole-person approach to care. The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) is announcing five participating health care providers in the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Transforming Maternal Health Model (TMaH):

• UW Health Swedish American Hospital in Rockford

• Crusader Community Health in Rockford

• Advocate Sherman Hospital in Elgin

• Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville

• VNA Health in Elgin

The federal program is providing up to $17 million in funding over 10 years to assist Illinois and other awarded state Medicaid agencies in developing and piloting a more integrated approach to maternal healthcare. The pilot will take a comprehensive approach to physical health, mental health and social needs throughout the pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum care continuum. Through the pilot, participating providers will implement a new value-based payment mechanism that will incentivize whole person health outcomes by rewarding health systems and providers for their steadfast support of moms and babies across the state. The model’s three-year pre-implementation period is underway, running through 2028.