Health Department $991,000 Initiative Tackling Maternal Health Inequities Gets Green Light From City Committee

Pasadena could soon be taking a bold step to improve maternal health outcomes for its most vulnerable communities. The City Council’s Public Safety Committee learned details about the proposed launch of a $991,128 initiative designed to tackle racial disparities in birth outcomes on Wednesday.

During the committee’s July 16 meeting, city health officials shared plans for a three-year partnership between Pasadena’s Health Department and LA Care, the state’s largest publicly operated health plan, to implement evidence-based prenatal programs for African-American and Native American populations eligible for Medi-Cal.

The funding would also bolster data collection infrastructure, including upgrades to electronic health record systems and refined community health assessments.

“We want to make sure that it’s not overwhelming for a mother or father to go through this process,” said Councilmember Tyron Hampton, the committee chair.

Officials cited persistent racial disparities in maternal and infant mortality, prompting the focus on historically underserved groups.

At the center of the program is the implementation of Centering Pregnancy, a nationally recognized prenatal care model that combines health assessment, education and support in a group setting. A public health nurse would lead sessions in coordination with community clinics — two of which would be selected later this summer and are expected to provide physical space for the sessions.

In addition to medical support, the initiative would integrate referrals to housing, employment and mental health services through trained promotoras (community health workers).

While the funding covers specific program components, department leaders said they are committed to providing wraparound care.

Committee members asked about links to existing programs, such as Pasadena’s Black Infant Health initiative, which could be strengthened through data integration and patient referrals.

Councilmember Justin Jones asked how social services would be incorporated; city staff members affirmed the department’s collaborative strategy with other city entities.

Councilmember Steve Madison pressed officials about broader access to contraception and pregnancy termination resources. Health Department officials clarified that while the program centers on promoting healthy pregnancies, referrals will be made when needed for alternative options.

The contract with LA Care was approved unanimously; it ultimately must be finalized by a vote of the full council.

As part of community outreach, the department plans to revive a “baby passport” program and expand visibility through local partnerships, including public events and school-based outreach.

Hampton urged the department to advertise widely through city parks, Kidspace Children’s Museum, and Pasadena Unified School District elementary schools.

“Most people that have an elementary school child, if they’re going to have a second child, they may not know about these avenues.”