Maternal and Child Health Encounters Networks (MCHEK)

The Maternal and Child Health Encounters Networks program, managed by the Health Resources and Services Administration under the Department of Health and Human Services, seeks to enhance maternal and infant health by preventing exposure to harmful substances throughout the prenatal, perinatal, and postpartum periods. It will establish and support a national expert-staffed call center that delivers timely, evidence-based counseling on medications, nutrition, household products, and environmental risks, translating complex scientific data into accessible, personalized guidance for women, families, and healthcare providers. The initiative leverages emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, to improve the accuracy, scalability, and reach of its services, ensuring that critical health information is available when and where it is needed most. The program is forecasted to be posted on July 31, 2026, with no specified solicitation number or set-aside type, and is open to potential applicants seeking to collaborate with the Maternal and Child Health Bureau’s Division of Services. The point of contact for inquiries is the Maternal Child Health Bureau/Division of Services, reachable via email at cyshcn@hrsa.gov or phone at 301-443-5692. While the place of performance and specific funding details are not yet defined, the initiative is positioned to address systemic gaps in maternal healthcare through proactive, technology-enhanced preventive support, ultimately aiming to reduce adverse outcomes by empowering informed decision-making across the continuum of pregnancy and early infancy.