Charleston health care network awarded $2M grant for women’s health

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Fetter Health Care Network has been awarded the Quality Improvement Fund Maternal Health grant, a $2 million award provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

The grant, which totals more than $65 million dispersed amongst more than a dozen HRSA-funded health centers, is aimed at enhancing the quality and accessibility of prenatal care services throughout the Lowcountry, according to a news release. The award is part of a larger, whole-of-government strategy to improve U.S. maternal health, particularly in underserved communities.

As part of a larger two-year grant program, the award supports Fetter in improving maternal health services in racial and ethnic communities impacted by health disparities, the news release stated. Funds from this award will support initiatives to increase early access and dismantle barriers to prenatal care, improve maternal health outcomes and provide diabetes prevention. The grant also will assist in integrating maternal health with behavioral health services while introducing the CenteringPregnancy care model to Fetter’s prenatal offerings via an educational support group offered to expecting mothers. 

“We are grateful for this support that enables us to make significant advancements that promote the wellness of our community,” Fetter CEO Dr. Aretha Powers said in the release. “This grant will allow us to procure cutting-edge equipment and expand our care staff, ensuring that expectant Lowcountry mothers and their children receive the comprehensive care they deserve."

Fetter intends to invest in new equipment, including ultrasound machines, telehealth machines and exam beds, and increase availability of on-site and virtual prenatal care services, the release said. Funding will also support the expansion of its care staff.

Fetter women’s health services are available throughout its Lowcountry locations, with OB/GYN specialty services based out of the Charleston Family Health Center in downtown Charleston and the Women & Children’s Annex of Thaddeus J. Bell MD Family Health Center in Summerville. For more information on Fetter’s services or to schedule an appointment, visit FetterHealthCare.org or call 843-722-4112.

The HHS award is provided through the Health Resources and Services Administration Health Center Program.

Fetter provides comprehensive services for insured, uninsured and underserved residents in Berkeley, Charleston, Colleton and Dorchester counties. Fetter Health Care Network has 27 different sites, including mobile units, medical laboratories and pharmacies.