Access to maternal health services in Texas has long been a challenge, especially for families facing housing uncertainty, food insecurity, and transportation challenges. Recognizing these struggles, the Texas state legislature has recently taken steps to address non-medical needs for pregnant women, including passing a bill that allows Medicaid reimbursement for community health workers and doulas—non-medical professionals who guide women through pregnancy and postpartum care. Even though the reimbursement rates are low, it is a first step toward integrating these services into the healthcare system. 

But while the Texas legislature only recently passed the reimbursement bill, Community Health Choice has long been a leader of this initiative, using its network of community health workers to conduct non-medical screenings and connect families with vital resources.

Lisa Wright, President and CEO of Community, has been a champion of a holistic approach to maternal health care for more than 20 years. Since 2020, she has guided Community with the idea that a healthy pregnancy needs more than just medical appointments, it involves making sure that expectant mothers have a place to call home and transportation not only to medical appointments but also to stores for food, baby products, and other essential resources. 

Lisa emphasized this point in a recent Texas Tribune interview, stating, “We often think about getting a patient to and from the doctor, but can they get to the pharmacy? Can they stop at the store because they may have to pick up baby items?” By addressing these challenges early, Community has improved outcomes for both mothers and children, reducing missed appointments and making sure treatment plans are completed.

Lisa also acknowledged that the real challenge is making sure that the social services infrastructure can meet increasing demand. “We’re dealing with a population with a lot going on in their lives, and you want to be that one stable force,” she said. “When someone is experiencing an issue, they can’t simply take a phone number for a resource. You’re going to have to, at least the first time, hold their hand through the process.”

Community, under Lisa’s leadership, continues to advocate for expanded services and sustainable funding. Our work highlights the importance of treating healthcare as more than just doctor’s visits– it’s about wrapping support around families to ensure healthier pregnancies and brighter futures for Texas children.

But there is still more work to be done. We invite policymakers, healthcare providers, and community partners to join our effort in expanding access to these critical services. Whether through advocacy, collaboration, or direct support, we can work together to make maternal health care more accessible and equitable for all Texas families.

Read the full Texas Tribune article featuring CEO Lisa Wright below: