Ochsner Health’s Connected MOM Program Wins HHS Hypertension Innovator Award

Ochsner Health’s innovative Connected MOM (Maternity Online Monitoring) program has been recognized as a winner of the prestigious HHS Hypertension Innovator Award Competition. This national competition, spearheaded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office on Women’s Health, identifies and rewards groundbreaking programs that provide crucial monitoring and follow-up care for women experiencing hypertension during pregnancy and the postpartum period.

The Ochsner Connected MOM program empowers expectant mothers to manage their pregnancies conveniently from home. Patients can digitally transmit blood pressure readings to their medical team, facilitating continuous health monitoring between appointments.

Pregnant woman using a blood pressure monitor at home

This telehealth initiative addresses a critical need by removing barriers to healthcare access for many mothers, particularly those in rural communities or facing socioeconomic challenges.

Addressing Hypertension in Pregnancy with Connected Care

The HHS competition rigorously evaluated the effectiveness of Ochsner Connected MOM in improving blood pressure monitoring adherence during pregnancy and postpartum, specifically among Black patients and those residing in rural areas. The program demonstrated a statistically significant increase in blood pressure measurements during both pregnancy and the postpartum period, showcasing its positive impact on maternal health. Currently utilized by over 100 Ochsner providers across Louisiana, the Connected MOM platform reached more than 2,000 patients last year.

Healthcare provider reviewing patient data on the Connected MOM platform

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Dr. Veronica Gillispie Bell, senior site lead for women’s services at Ochsner Health Kenner and director of quality for Women’s Services, emphasized the transformative potential of telehealth. “This award will broaden the reach of this program, ensuring that even more mothers can experience the benefits of comprehensive, compassionate, and convenient care.”

Expanding Access to Maternal Healthcare

Dr. Joseph Biggio, system chair for Women’s Services and Maternal-Fetal Medicine at Ochsner, highlighted the organization’s commitment to addressing maternal health disparities. “This award will help accelerate the expansion and augmentation of the program so that we can serve more patients and improve care to an even broader population.”

Admiral Rachel Levine, MD, assistant secretary for Health for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, underscored the national significance of this initiative. “Community-tailored solutions increasing access and coverage of comprehensive maternal health care are critical in achieving health equity.”

Conclusion: Empowering Healthier Pregnancies Through Innovation

The Ochsner Connected MOM program represents a significant advancement in maternal healthcare, providing a scalable and effective solution for monitoring and managing hypertension during pregnancy and postpartum. This innovative approach empowers expectant mothers with convenient access to crucial care, ultimately promoting healthier pregnancies and improved maternal outcomes. For personalized treatment plans, consult with a healthcare professional today.