Today, Juan and Claudia Diaz’ newly born son has a much healthier future than yesterday.

That’s because he is the first child born and pre-enrolled in Mercy Ministries of Laredo’s (MML) new Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) prenatal initiative.

MML’s prenatal program was recently approved as a SCHIP provider for prenatal healthcare and is now enrolling qualified applicants at MML’s offices at 2500 Zacatecas.  Once enrolled, women and their unborn children qualify for care under this vital program.

Martha Martinez, Director of Operations for Mercy Ministries of Laredo (MML), said the program’s availability constitutes a historic moment for MML since the Sisters of Mercy first established a prenatal program for financially disadvantaged mothers in 1998. 

“Prenatal and infant care is often well outside the reach of many Laredo mothers from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. This prenatal insurance program offers a critical bridge to establish important healthcare patterns, and provides consistent care and regular monitoring for mother and child alike.  Through SCHIP, we have the potential to impact hundreds of young lives and improve health for them and their families.  It’s a great way to deliver our ministries’ mission,” she said. 

Approval for the new SCHIP prenatal program allows MML to amplify its services for expectant mothers. The SCHIP prenatal program is for Texas residents who are pregnant, uninsured and not eligible for Medicaid. Coverage starts before the child is born and continues after birth.  Total prenatal coverage is 12 continuous months.

Approved applicants receive 20 prenatal visits, prescription drug coverage, hospital facility charges and professional charges for labor and delivery, two postpartum visits for the mother and regular check-ups, in addition to immunizations and prescriptions for the baby.  Coverage is linked uniquely to prenatal care and unanticipated medical conditions are not covered. 

MML is a non-profit outreach ministry dedicated to a variety of community needs. Inspired and led by the Sisters of Mercy, its mission includes 14 primary healthcare, healthcare education and social service offerings for Laredo and surrounding rural communities. Its ministries address the needs of all people, with special concern for the poor, marginal, women and children. 

Other programs include dental care, medication assistance, outreach and education and specialized services including cancer-assistance, specialty physician referrals and chronic illness management. 

Through collaboration and visionary philanthropic partnership it works to share its mission and values daily and aggressively seeks partnerships with those who can assist. 

For more information, please contact Sr. Maria Luisa Vera at MML at 721-7401, visit offices at 2500 Zacatecas, email mlvera@mercy.net or click on www.mercylaredo.com