The new National Institute of Early Education Research (NIEER) Yearbook is out and, as usual, it's in the headlines in Texas and around the country. Here are our top 7 takeaways and implications for Texas.
For Healthy Babies, Moms Need More Than Google Searches
Many women don't get insurance from their employers, and, with few exceptions, women in Texas can't apply for Medicaid coverage until they're pregnant. So they often miss the opportunity for preconception care, such as diabetes treatment or access to contraception, which would help them plan a healthy pregnancy.
In the News: For Foster Kids, a Push to Make Medical Care Treat Psychological Pain
In the News: Budget Cuts Hit Early Childhood Intervention Program
Implementation of Healthy Texas Women and Family Planning Program
Testimony to Texas Health and Human Services Commission
As HHSC implements Healthy Texas Women (HTW) and the Family Planning Program (FPP), it should ensure access to preventive and preconception care - including screening and treatment for conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and postpartum depression - in order to positively impact women's health, future pregnancies, and the health of babies.
In the News: Appeals Court Tosses Lawsuit Blocking Texas Medicaid Cuts
In the News: Quality Pre-k: High Demand Is Heartening, but Texas Shouldn't Let It Dilute First-Class Programs
Houston Chronicle - School districts representing 86 percent of students in Texas' public schools applied for the state's new pre-k grants. If every application is accepted, the grant funding allotted to each district could amount to less than half of the $1,500 per-student maximum envisioned in HB 4.