Health Professions and Related Programs > Maternal and Child Health

Maternal and Child Health

Public health experts in the United States and elsewhere assess health risks and preventative design measures. In addition, public health workers play an active role in preventing illness and promoting health by disseminating relevant information and encouraging healthy practices among the population, conducting relevant research, and putting their findings into practice through various programs. Public health issues that disproportionately affect women, children, and their families are the primary focus of maternity and child health specialists. Health care providers specializing in pregnant women and children work to improve the mother's and unborn child's well-being and boost vaccination rates. Advocates, educators, and researchers in maternal and child health all contribute to enhancing the health care system's ability to meet the needs of mothers and children. They are successful in this endeavor because they conduct applied research to identify problems and evaluate potential solutions. In addition, they design, administer, and assess health initiatives on various scales (local, state, national, and worldwide).