JANS – Thanks to a $50,000 donation from Amerigroup, the American Heart Association of Mississippi provided vital support to the G.A. Carmichael Family Health Center in Canton, MS. Through this partnership, blood pressure cuffs and New Mom Kits were provided to the health center’s staff on April 3, 2024.

The purchase of blood pressure cuffs (standard and extended sizes) enables the G.A. Carmichael staff to diligently monitor the blood pressure levels of expectant mothers. This proactive approach facilitates the effective identification and management of hypertension during pregnancy. Research published in the American Heart Association’s journal, Circulation says that a woman’s blood volume can increase by up to 45 percent during pregnancy.  This places additional strain on the heart. By equipping healthcare professionals with essential monitoring tools, Amerigroup and the American Heart Association of Mississippi will help enhance maternal health outcomes and assist with the reduction of the incidence of complications associated with high blood pressure.  In addition to the blood pressure cuffs, Amerigroup’s donation facilitated the purchase of maternal self-care wellness kits. These kits will help mothers prioritize their physical, mental, and emotional well-being throughout pregnancy and help create thriving families.

“We were proud to partner with the American Heart Association of Mississippi to support maternal health initiatives in the Canton, MS community,” stated Misti McNichols, Medicaid Territory Marketing Manager at Amerigroup Mississippi. “By providing essential resources and promoting awareness of the risks associated with high blood pressure during pregnancy, we hope to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of expectant mothers and their babies.”

For more information, contact Tara Clark, Government Relations Director, Amerigroup MS, at tarance.clark@amerigroup.com.