Mountain State Times

The West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS), Bureau for Medical Services (BMS) has announced that the state is among 15 selected by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to join the Transforming Maternal Health (TMaH) Model. This initiative aims to improve maternal health outcomes for mothers and infants enrolled in Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

Launched on January 1, 2025, the TMaH Model will operate over a decade. It seeks to address disparities in access, care, and outcomes for mothers and newborns. West Virginia's participation highlights its commitment to maternal and child health, particularly for vulnerable populations.

"This selection reflects West Virginia’s dedication to ensuring that every mother and infant has access to the highest quality care," said Cindy Beane, DoHS Bureau for Medical Services Commissioner. "Through the TMaH Model, we have the opportunity to transform maternal health care in our state, eliminating barriers and providing comprehensive, compassionate care to families who need it most."

The TMaH Model focuses on several key areas:

- Access to care: Expanding access and addressing barriers that limit resource availability. This includes fostering culturally sensitive care and empowering mothers.

- Quality improvement: Implementing evidence-based patient safety bundles to enhance health outcomes. This includes addressing issues like hypertension during pregnancy, substance use disorders, cardiac conditions, and working toward CMS's “Birthing-Friendly” hospital designation.

- Whole-person care delivery: Offering tailored care plans based on physical, social, and mental health needs. This includes prenatal screenings, remote monitoring for conditions like hypertension, and connections to community organizations.

Families interested in West Virginia Medicaid or WV CHIP services can apply at wvpath.wv.gov. More information about the TMaH Model is available on its webpage.