Support for the Perinatal Equity Initiative (PEI)
The Maternal Health Network supports the PEI to help reduce maternal health disparities for mothers in San Bernardino County.
As part of the Maternal Health Network's Collaborative Plan of Action, the Network has prioritized supporting the Perinatal Equity Initiative to reduce maternal health disparities. This page is intended to serve as a one-stop shop for providers in San Bernardino County to learn about the various programs made available by the PEI, understand who is eligible for services, and refer families to programming.
Black Infant Health (BIH) Program
Within a culturally affirming environment and honoring the unique history of African-American women, the Black Infant Health (BIH) Program uses a group-based approach with complementary client-centered case management to help women develop life skills, learn strategies for reducing stress, and build social support. BIH participants participate in weekly group sessions, supported by one-to-one case management, designed to help access their own strengths and set health-promoting goals for themselves and their babies.
Perinatal Equity Initiative (PEI) Program
​The Perinatal Equity Initiative (PEI) program aims to address the causes of persistent inequality and identify best practices to eliminate disparities in infant mortality. Although declines in infant mortality have been achieved, the statewide mortality rate for African-American infants continues to be two to four times higher than rates for other groups. PEI complements programs and services offered through the Black Infant Health (BIH) Group Model. BIH is a group-based approach that provides services, information and social support to African-American mothers to buffer the negative effects of racism and its consequences on women's environments and social experiences. PEI takes efforts to address racial disparities in infant mortality even further, promoting specific interventions designed to improve outcomes for African-American mothers and their families.
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The interventions offered in San Bernardino County consist of: ​
PEI Home Visiting Intervention
The home visiting services intervention for PEI will utilize the model Healthy Families America (HFA). HFA is an evidence-based, family-centered home visiting program designed to strengthen the capacity in families to cultivate positive, nurturing relationships between parents and their children. Direct services are provided by the community-based organization El Sol Neighborhood Educational Center.
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Current PEI Home Visiting Intervention Guidelines for Participation
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Self-identify as African-American
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18 years of age or older
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Pregnant at least 24 weeks gestational age or within the first three months after an infant’s birth
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Resident of San Bernardino County
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To Refer a Woman to PEI Home Visiting Intervention
Complete the the program referral form using the button below
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PEI Fatherhood/Partnership Intervention
The Fatherhood/Partnership engagement services intervention for PEI will utilize the 24/7 Dad AM model. The 24/7 Dad AM model is an evidence-based program consisting of a mixture of group sessions and home visits to teach parenting and nurturing skills to men, focusing on key fathering characteristics.
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Current PEI Fatherhood/Partnership Engagement Intervention Guidelines for Participation
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Father/partner of a pregnant/parenting African-American woman with a child under one
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Resident of San Bernardino County
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For questions or referrals regarding the PEI Fatherhood/Partnership Engagement intervention
Complete the Program Referral Form and email the PEI Program Coordinator Ryan Berryman at rberryman6645@gmail.com.
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PEI Doula Intervention
A doula is a trained non-medical, non-licensed advocate who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to a mother before, during and shortly after childbirth to help her achieve the healthiest, birthing experience possible.
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Current PEI Doula Intervention Guidelines for Participation
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African-American pregnant woman
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Non-Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) member (IEHP members will have access to pilot doula services through plan benefits.)
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Resident of San Bernardino County
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For questions regarding the PEI Doula Intervention
Email the PEI Program Coordinator Elizabeth Sneed-Berrie at Sneed-Berrie@dph.sbcounty.gov.
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Support for the PEI Page
The MHN has established community education materials for twelve topics our membership told us were most important for families and providers in San Bernardino County. Below you will find a Tip Sheet and social media posts that elevate issues of equity for these twelve topic areas and promote programs funding by the Perinatal Equity Initiative in San Bernardino County.
Maintaining Healthy Relationships Before and After Delivery
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Intimate partner violence
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Healthy relationship with yourself
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Healthy relationship with your support system
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Healthy relationship with your community
Preparing A Safe Home for Baby
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Make a plan
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Emotionally Prepare
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Identify and access your support system
What to Avoid During and After Pregnancy
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Alcohol, tobacco, and other harmful substances
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Dietary considerations
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Physical limitations