Inland Empire Birth Equity: How Home Prenatal and Postpartum Care Are Transforming Maternal Wellness
Introduction: Why Birth Equity Still Matters in the Inland Empire What does it mean to give birth in a system that doesn’t treat everyone equally? For many mothers in California’s Inland Empire - particularly in rural communities and among women of color - access to consistent, quality maternal care is not a guarantee. Questions like “Can I get prenatal checkups at home?” or “Will my health plan cover postpartum care services?” are becoming more common as families search for flexible, inclusive, and compassionate healthcare options. Across the U.S., maternal health outcomes have become a national concern. Yet, the disparities are particularly visible in regions like the Inland Empire, where geography, income, and limited provider availability create barriers to equitable care. Despite strong efforts from local organizations and programs such as the Inland Empire Health Plan , gaps persist in prenatal support, postpartum follow-up, and mental health access. This blog explores ho...