What is the primary goal of maternal and child health programs?

The primary goal of maternal and child health programs is to improve health outcomes for mothers, infants, and children. These programs are designed to focus on specific health needs and challenges faced during pregnancy, childbirth, and childhood. They aim to ensure that mothers receive adequate prenatal and postnatal care and that infants and children receive necessary healthcare services, vaccinations, and nutrition. By addressing the health of these vulnerable populations, maternal and child health programs work to enhance overall health, reduce mortality rates, and promote healthy development.

While reducing healthcare costs for families, promoting adult health services, and increasing the number of pediatric care facilities are important aspects of the broader healthcare system, they do not represent the main goal of specific maternal and child health initiatives. Instead, improving health outcomes directly targets the well-being of mothers and children, which is foundational to the philosophy behind these programs.