Project Summary:
Wisconsin families face significant obstacles in supporting their children's development, particularly in rural and urban areas where racial disparities affect access to services. These challenges, combined with economic pressures and limited mental health support, create barriers to optimal child development. First 5 Fox Valley (F5FV) has successfully implemented the evidence-based Help Me Grow (HMG) model in Wisconsin since 2021, demonstrating its effectiveness in strengthening families through developmental screening and support services.
Building on a successful partnership with ThedaCare, where HMG referral pathways were embedded within EPIC software systems, this project aims to identify and develop standardized pathways for integrating HMG within additional healthcare systems across Wisconsin. The initiative will examine how different health systems currently track developmental screening and family follow-up, with a particular focus on systems within current HMG affiliate areas. By documenting ThedaCare's successful model of embedding HMG within their Social Determinants of Health team, the project will create a blueprint for broader implementation.
This project seeks to create a roadmap for expanding developmental screening used by health systems and identifying where HMG can support families who are experiencing gaps in care. Researchers hope to improve early childhood health outcomes and family-level support across Wisconsin by establishing coordinated solutions that will address families' needs. If successful, the initiative will increase health equity for underserved populations.
Community Partners: ThedaCare, HMG-Kenosha, HMG-Fox Valley, Children’s Wisconsin