ConnectRx is a communitywide care coordination approach launched in 2022 that connects Black pregnant patients to community resources during pregnancy and for up to a year after birth, with an ultimate goal to improve birth outcomes.
 
The UW Health Population Health Department implemented ConnectRx Wisconsin in partnership with the Dane County Health Council and the Black Maternal and Child Health Alliance. ConnectRx works to reduce disparities in birthweight and infant mortality and support reproductive justice—one of four health priorities based on the most recent Dane County CHNA.
 
In the program’s first year, UW Health hired seven community health workers (CHWs) who support eligible pregnant patients to provide culturally responsive care and assist with navigating community resources. CHWs advocate for patients with landlords, community-based organizations and medical providers. They procure and deliver food, diapers and other essential items to patients. The team also writes letters of support and refers patients to additional resources as needed.
 
Key accomplishments in the first year include:
 

• 313 Black pregnant patients screened
• 194 patients enrolled
• 75 healthy babies born to enrolled patients