Healthy Beginnings Start Here

By Sonia Jordan, MA, Health Equity Manager, BCBSKS

Dec. 18, 2025

The journey to motherhood can be filled with joy, anticipation and, unfortunately, risk. Despite advances in health care, Kansas mothers continue to face troubling maternal health outcomes. Negative maternal health outcomes have increased, leading to potential long-term health challenges for mothers and babies.

At Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas (BCBSKS), we value you, your culture and community. By improving outcomes at both the individual and community levels, we’re committed to pursuing a more accessible, inclusive and equitable system that helps everyone reach their full health potential. We believe that every mother deserves the opportunity to experience a healthy pregnancy and birth. That’s why we’re proud to sponsor the Baby Talk program at the University of Kansas School of Medicine-Wichita Department of Pediatrics.

Why Maternal Health Matters in Kansas

Maternal health is a cornerstone of community well-being, but in Kansas, many expectant moms face barriers that put their health at risk. These issues are social, economic and community challenges, not just medical issues. Rural counties often lack maternity care providers, and transportation challenges, language barriers and financial constraints that further complicate access to prenatal services.

Baby Talk was created to address these very challenges. Managed by KU Wichita Pediatrics, the program offers six two-hour classes covering pregnancy health, labor and delivery, infant care and postpartum wellness. Classes are accessible to a wide range of participants through both online and in-person formats and available in English and Spanish. All classes are free for participants.

“What we do with Baby Talk is we really focus on educating expecting families on the importance of safe sleep practices, infant safety, as well as educating the pregnant people about their health,” said Joy Miller, MCH program manager, Baby Talk. “We just really want to increase birth outcomes and annihilate infant mortality.”

Baby Talk is more than just a class; it’s a community for pregnant mothers to learn and grow together. Participants receive hands-on education, practical tools and emotional support. Upon completion, they’re eligible for a free infant safety item like portable cribs, car seats or breastfeeding kits. These incentives not only encourage participation but also equip families with essential resources for safe and healthy parenting.

BCBSKS Sponsorship: Investing in Maternal Health

Recognizing the power of Baby Talk, BCBSKS has committed to support its expansion statewide. The funding enables the program to reach additional expectant mothers, with a focus on rural and underserved communities through virtual classes.

Our sponsorship reflects our commitment to maternal health. We understand that improving outcomes requires more than clinical care. It demands education, empowerment and collaboration. By supporting Baby Talk, we help families make informed choices, access vital resources and celebrate milestones with confidence and joy.

Why Pregnant Women Should Enroll

If you’re pregnant, Baby Talk is an opportunity you don’t want to miss. The program is open to expectant moms under 32 weeks pregnant, regardless of insurance status. Whether you’re a first-time parent or adding to your family, Baby Talk offers practical, compassionate guidance tailored to your needs.

Enrollment is simple, and the benefits are profound. You’ll gain knowledge that can reduce health risks, improve birth outcomes and support your postpartum recovery. You’ll connect with people who care deeply about your well-being. And you’ll join a community of moms who are learning, growing and thriving together.

To sign up, visit babytalkict.com or call 316-347-7559. Classes fill up quickly, so don’t wait to claim your spot.

Conclusion: Building a Healthier Future

At BCBSKS, we believe that every baby deserves a healthy start — and every mother deserves the support to make that possible. Through our sponsorship of the Baby Talk program, we’re investing in the future of Kansas families. We’re promoting health, expanding access and empowering women to take charge of their maternal health.

If you’re expecting, we invite you to join Baby Talk. If you’re a community member, we invite you to support the cause. Together, we can build a healthier, stronger Kansas — one baby, one mom, one family at a time.