July 16, 2010

Healthy Futures Program Receives AHA's NOVA Award
The program is one of five programs nationally honored for collaborative efforts

The Healthy Futures program joins four other programs nationally honored by the American Hospital Association with its 2010 NOVA Award.

Healthy Futures is a partnership of area health providers, health departments, and Munson Healthcare that offers comprehensive education and support services to all area women during pregnancy through the second birthday of their child.

"This year's AHA NOVA Award winners showcase the power of collaboration and the positive community health changes that can be made when organizations work together," said Rich Umbdenstock, AHA president and CEO. "The hospitals leading these programs have successfully met common health challenges by partnering with the community."

Healthy Futures Coordinator Betsy Hardy said the program works because of the collaboration among program partners.

"While Munson Healthcare is being recognized with this award, it truly is a shared success," she said. "Because of our collaboration, Healthy Futures provides area families care and support that no partner entity could do alone."

Partnering agencies in addition to Munson Healthcare are the Grand Traverse County Health Department, Benzie-Leelanau District Health Department, District Health Department #10, and the Health Department of Northwest Michigan. The program also has received financial support from Century 21 Northland in Traverse City, United Way of Northwest Michigan, and the Kohl's Cares for Kids program.

Healthy Futures focuses on breastfeeding, immunization, and access to health care. Services are based on needs, and can include: post-partum home visits, risk assessment, referrals for medical or social services and other community support, breastfeeding support, and assistance in crisis situations.

"Our goal is to improve the health of pregnant women and children under age 2 in an eight-county area of northern Michigan," Hardy said. "Five counties are served by Munson Medical Center, while the other three counties are served by other Munson Healthcare System hospitals."

Since the program's inception, nearly 15,000 children have been enrolled in the RN-based support services. At any given time, more than 1,500 families are receiving RN services through Healthy Futures.

Breastfeeding and immunization rates for 2 year olds in the program are better than national, state, and regional averages. In 2009, 76 percent of children in the program were immunized at 2 years. Additionally, nearly all newborns and children in the program have a primary health care provider, and 99 percent of pregnant women are connected with an obstetrical provider at their first contact with Healthy Futures.

The NOVA Award will be presented at the AHA/Health Forum Leadership Summit in San Diego on Saturday, July 24.

Contact:  Meghan Daigh
or Dale Killingbeck
Munson Healthcare
Corporate Communications
(231) 935-3394
news@mhc.net