News Roundup: June 7

Rhode Island Kids Count knows how important a strong start is for giving children the best chance is in life. In a recent presentation on on the economic, health, educational, and developmental trends for children in Pawtucket, representatives for the organization discussed the positive impact that timely prenatal care, high-quality childcare, and in-home support programs can have on long-term outcomes for children. They also noted that the need for these services locally is on the rise, as data shows the number of Pawtucket families struggling economically is well above the state average, with 27.3% of children living in poverty as of 2010. Alongside these economic struggles, the city is also seeing higher rates of delayed prenatal care, preterm birth, and child abuse and neglect. [The Valley Breeze]
For low-income mothers, the often long and complex process of applying for Medicaid can prevent or delay them or their children from receiving needed healthcare services. In Ohio, state leadership is looking to reduce this barrier to care by expanding “presumptive eligibility” coverage, allowing children and pregnant women to receive care while a Medicaid application is still under review. According to Sandy Oxley, state field director for Voices for Ohio’s Children, this expanded coverage could go a long way in helping to reduce the state’s preterm birth rate. [Public News Service – Ohio]

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