Better Birth Outcomes (BBO)

The Better Birth Outcomes program (BBO) is dedicated to ensuring the health and well-being of expecting mothers and their babies through prenatal supportive services. Focused on caring for those mothers most at risk for poor pregnancy outcomes, BBO aims to: 

  • Reduce the incidence of infant disease and death resulting from lack of adequate prenatal care;
  • Improve pregnancy outcomes; 
  • Decrease the incidence of premature birth and low birth weight.

BBO offers support for expecting mothers by providing:

  • Individualized care with a knowledgeable RN/Case Manager
  • Education on fostering a healthy, full-term pregnancy 
  • Breastfeeding education & support 
  • Coordinated care with the mother’s healthcare provider
  • Assistance with selected transportation expenses 
  • Referrals to additional supportive services & other identified needs 

BBO offers support for growing babies by providing:

  • Nutrition education & support via the WIC program 
  • Lead testing
  • Immunizations
  • Assessment for developmental & emotional delays with referrals for early intervention services as needed
  • Ongoing breastfeeding support & referral to Breastfeeding Peer Counselor as needed 
  • Guidance & support navigating Illinois’ All Kids health insurance 

Eligibility 

Participants eligible for BBO include pregnant women with the following risk factors:

  • Medical condition (examples: diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, lupus, etc.)
  • Smoking, Vaping, drug or alcohol use
  • Previous miscarriage or premature birth
  • Third child in 3½years
  • Pregnant with twins or triplets
  • History of HIV/AIDS or sexually transmitted diseases
  • Over 40 years or under 15 years of age
  • Previously/currently abused by anyone
  • Homeless
  • Previously incarcerated
  • Previous/current involvement with DCFS