Arkansas Models and Innovations

These stories feature model programs and successful rural projects that can serve as a source of ideas. Some of the projects or programs may no longer be active. Read about the criteria and evidence-base for programs included.

Evidence-Based Examples

UAMS IDHI High-Risk Pregnancy Program

Updated/reviewed January 2024

• Need: Arkansas had high rates of low birthweight babies, and pregnant individuals in rural areas had difficulty accessing specialty obstetric care.
• Intervention: The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) created the Institute for Digital Health & Innovation (IDHI) High-Risk Pregnancy Program to increase access to care for pregnant individuals in an effort to improve outcomes for high-risk pregnancies.
• Results: The program has increased access to care and improved neonatal outcomes for rural Arkansas individuals through a variety of programs and has been recognized by various organizations as a model program.

Promising Examples

Healthy Connections, Inc. Healthy Families Arkansas

Updated/reviewed December 2022

• Need: High poverty rates and lack of access to healthcare make caring for unborn and newborn children difficult for young mothers in Arkansas's Polk and Garland Counties.
• Intervention: An Arkansas-based program provides a national healthcare service to expectant and young mothers. Prenatal check-ups, education, transportation, well-baby checks and child immunizations are all provided by the Healthy Connections, Inc.
• Results: The program's results demonstrate an increase in first trimester prenatal care rates and child immunization rates, as well as a dramatic decrease in confirmed cases of child abuse.

Other Project Examples

SAMA HealthCare Services's Patient-Centered Medical Home

Updated/reviewed February 2018

• Need: The traditional model where providers work independently from one another in treating patients proved to lack care continuity at SAMA Healthcare Services in rural Arkansas.
• Intervention: The family practice clinic shifted to a team-based model of care where the medical staff works together in pods in order to create a patient-centered medical home.
• Results: SAMA doubled the amount of patients seen in 1 day and at least 90% of patients receive medical treatment from a provider within their pod.