At the present rate of decline, the year 2000 infant mortality rate is projected to be 6.0. The 1995 infant mortality rate among white infants in the state was 7.3, down from a high of 9.6 in 1986. The state infant mortality rate for African-American infants in 1995 was 14.9, down from a decade high of 28.9 in 1986. The national year 2000 target rate for mortality among African-American infants is 11.0 deaths per 1,000 live births. No state data are currently available for this objective.
Baseline data are also unavailable on the national level.
The Office is involved in many initiatives that address the problems of pregnant women and children in the state. Patients may enter into the care system through a myriad of organized Maternal and Child Health efforts. Many community health centers provide outreach and tracking activities to ensure continuity of care for patients. Patients may obtain information about Maternal and Child Health programs by utilizing several toll-free telephone numbers. Expanded Medicaid eligibility has increased the number of pregnant women and children eligible for Maternal and Child Health services.