The South Dakota Department of Health has reported positive outcomes from its Bright Start Nurse Home Visiting Program, which provides support to first-time pregnant women in selected counties across the state. The program connects participants with trained nurse home visitors who assist families from pregnancy through the child's second birthday.
“These results show the real impact of building meaningful, consistent connections with families early in life,” said Melissa Magstadt, Secretary of Health. “Our Bright Start nurses walk alongside families, answer questions, provide reassurance, and help parents get the right care at the right time. That personal relationship matters.”
Recent data shows that 72.3% of children enrolled in Bright Start received the recommended number of well-child visits by 15 months old, compared to 44.9% among Medicaid-enrolled children statewide. By 30 months, 88.9% of Bright Start children continued routine well-child visits after leaving the program, whereas only 50.9% of Medicaid-enrolled children did so statewide. In terms of childhood lead screening by age two, 63.3% of Bright Start participants were screened compared to 32.3% in the general Medicaid population.
Participation in Bright Start is voluntary and free for eligible families, with most choosing to enroll their children in Medicaid coverage during their involvement with the program. Funding comes from Medicaid, state general funds, and federal Maternal Infant and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) grants.
“We see that Bright Start helps establish strong healthcare habits that continue even after families graduate from the program,” said Secretary Magstadt. “This means healthier kids, more confident parents, and stronger communities across South Dakota.”
Bright Start uses the Nurse Family Partnership evidence-based model to promote healthy pregnancies, child development, family bonding, and links to community resources.
The Department of Health continues its mission to protect and improve health for all residents by promoting wellness and ensuring access to quality healthcare services.
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