Simply Healthcare Plans, Inc. and Healthcare Network have launched a statewide mobile maternal health initiative that brings prenatal services, health education and community resources directly to women who face barriers to accessing them.

Simply Healthcare’s investment is enabling Healthcare Network’s Van Domelen Health Express mobile unit to travel across Florida and deliver critical maternal health resources. Local community health centers are managing patient outreach and coordinating scheduling. The mobile clinic then steps in to supplement local care by offering prenatal services as well as direct assistance with social needs, such as connecting families to housing, food, transportation and other resources that can impact a healthy pregnancy.

“Early prenatal services and ongoing support can make a significant difference for both mother and baby, but accessing them is not equally easy for every woman,” said Jaime Khemraj, M.D., chief medical officer at Healthcare Network. “By working alongside local health centers, we can extend resources beyond their walls and reach women who may benefit from additional support. The local partnership also helps ensure women remain connected to service providers in their communities after the mobile unit moves on.”

The tour includes more than a dozen planned stops across the entire state, from South Florida through the Panhandle. It will continue through May 2027 and offer access to:

  • Free pregnancy screenings

  • Non-diagnostic ultrasounds

  • Prenatal and postnatal health education

  • Referrals and on-site registration with local FQHCs

  • Connections to ongoing prenatal services and resources

This initiative addresses a growing challenge in Florida, where early prenatal care has declined. Data from the Florida Department of Health show that first-trimester prenatal care fell to 68.9% in 2024, down from 76.1% in 2020. The initiative is designed to help address this gap and aligns with the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration’s (AHCA’s) From the Start program, which is focused on improving maternal outcomes, strengthening care coordination and reducing gaps in access. From the Start specifically promotes expanded access to mobile obstetric services as one strategy for reaching women who need additional support. More information about From the Start can be found by visiting fromthestart.org.

“Simply Healthcare recognized the value in bringing resources directly to women while building on the relationships and infrastructure of trusted health centers in their communities, so we made the investment to expand Healthcare Network’s reach across Florida,” said Marc Kaprow, D.O., medical director for Simply Healthcare Plans. “This innovative initiative is a practical way to reach women earlier, help overcome barriers to access, strengthen care coordination and ultimately improve health outcomes for mothers and babies.”

Floridians interested in available services or information about upcoming mobile stops can contact Healthcare Network at 239-658-3000 or visit HealthcareSWFL.org. Simply Healthcare members can also visit SimplyHealthcarePlans.com or call the Member Services number on their member ID card for information about maternal health benefits, programs and resources available through their health plan.

ABOUT SIMPLY HEALTHCARE PLANS

Simply Healthcare Plans, Inc., is a Florida managed health care plan that serves Medicare Advantage and Medicaid members in the state of Florida. In addition, Simply, through a line of business called Clear Health Alliance, also serves Florida Medicaid members who are living with HIV/AIDS. Our goal is to provide healthcare and related services that are comprehensive, integrated and patient-centered. Each and every day, members of our team can be found in Florida communities, listening to our members, interacting with our health care providers and partnering with community-based organizations. Our goal is to ensure members and entire communities are empowered to become active participants in their health care and sustain healthy lifestyles. To learn more about Simply, visit www.simplyhealthcareplans.com.

Simply Healthcare Plans, Inc. is a Managed Care Plan with a Florida Medicaid Contract. For more information, contact the Managed Care Plan. Limitations, copayments, and/or restrictions may apply. Benefits, formulary, pharmacy network, premium and/or co-payments/co-insurance may change.

ABOUT HEALTHCARE NETWORK

Since 1977, Healthcare Network has distinguished itself as a premier patient-centered medical and dental home. Offering the highest level of coordinated care to all ages, Healthcare Network plays an integral role in keeping the entire community healthy, providing quality and comprehensive care and financial assistance when needed. With practices located throughout Collier County, primary health care services include family care, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, dental care and pharmacy as well as behavioral health counseling for both adults and children. Additionally, the organization’s community health workers bring health and social services directly to underserved families. For more information, visit HealthcareSWFL.org, or to schedule an appointment, please call 239-658-3000.

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