Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey is seeking to dramatically expand a state program that provides home visits to families following the birth of a child, potentially making the service available to parents and caregivers after virtually every birth in the Commonwealth.
The proposal, announced September 15, would direct an additional $2 million toward the Department of Public Health’s Welcome Family program. Healey’s administration says the initiative is designed to give new parents earlier access to postpartum healthcare, mental-health screening and other support during the first weeks after a baby arrives.
The proposal has nevertheless raised questions about how far the government should reach into private family life, particularly because the program involves healthcare professionals visiting families in their homes and asking questions about conditions inside the household.
During an appearance on Boston Public Radio, Healey described her vision for expanding the program statewide.
