MCHD observes Newborn Screening Awareness Month, highlights programs supporting healthy babies 09.21.26

September 21, 2026

MCHD observes Newborn Screening Awareness Month, highlights programs supporting healthy babies

MOBILE, Ala. — September is Newborn Screening Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of early testing and the many programs available to support the health of newborns and families in Mobile County.

Newborn screening is a vital public health service that uses a small blood sample to identify certain serious medical conditions that may not be visible at birth. Early detection allows for timely treatment, helping prevent lifelong disabilities or death. Although infants may appear healthy, these screenings ensure that hidden conditions are identified and managed as soon as possible.

In addition to newborn screening, the Mobile County Health Department (MCHD) offers several programs aimed at improving pregnancy outcomes and supporting infant health.

The Fetal and Infant Mortality Review (FIMR) Program examines community factors contributing to fetal and infant deaths. Through case reviews and voluntary maternal interviews, the program identifies gaps in care and opportunities for improvement. The Mobile County FIMR Program, also known as the Alabama Baby Coalition, has been working since 1998 to strengthen systems of care for women, infants, and families.

“MCHD’s FIMR reviews sometimes uncover cases where newborn screening was not completed, was delayed, or follow-up care did not occur as needed,” said Yvonne Baynard, who oversees the Alabama Baby Coalition. “By identifying these challenges, we can improve communication among providers and ensure families receive timely information and care. Just as important, we connect families to resources that support healthy outcomes from pregnancy through early childhood.”

The FIMR Community Action Team uses these findings to recommend improvements such as strengthening follow-up systems, enhancing parent education, and increasing access to community-based services. The team works closely with MCHD’s Maternal and Child Health programs, hospitals, laboratories, and local organizations to ensure families receive comprehensive care.

MCHD’s Healthy Start Enhanced Program also plays a key role in improving birth outcomes and infant health. The program provides care coordination, health education, and support services for pregnant women, new mothers, and infants, particularly those at higher risk for poor health outcomes. Healthy Start Enhanced helps families access prenatal care, promotes safe sleep practices, supports breastfeeding, and connects participants to medical and social services that contribute to healthier pregnancies and stronger starts for babies.

MCHD also provides nutrition and family support services through the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). WIC offers healthy foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and referrals to healthcare and social services. Eligible participants include pregnant women, new mothers, breastfeeding women, and children up to age 5.

“Programs like Healthy Start, WIC, and our maternal and child health services work alongside newborn screening to support families at every stage,” said Dr. Kevin Michaels, Mobile County Health Officer. “Together, these efforts help ensure babies are not only screened early but also have the support they need to grow and thrive.”

Residents interested in WIC services can visit https://mchd.org/wic or call 251-690-8829 for more information. The Healthy Start Enhanced Program directly can be reach by telephone at 251-433-8715 or by email to healthystart@mchd.org.