Safeguarding Maternal and Infant Health: Advancing Threat Detection with the CDC’s NCBDDD
Overview
Safeguarding Maternal and Infant Health: Advancing Threat Detection with the CDC’s NCBDDD
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) National Center for Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities (NCBDDD) leads the nation’s efforts to prevent birth defects and support healthy outcomes for infants. For nearly a decade, Chickasaw Federal has supported NCBDDD’s mission by delivering specialized talent, streamlined processes, and data-driven methods to monitor, assess, and respond to threats affecting pregnant women, fetuses, and newborns. From Zika to COVID-19, our work has contributed to improved data intake, faster response, and better health outcomes nationwide.
Challenge & Path Forward
Chickasaw Federal developed and implemented advanced methods for data collection and assessment of health threats related to maternal and infant health. We created a comprehensive Emerging Threats Response Playbook and supported CDC’s rapid response to COVID-19, syphilis, and hepatitis affecting pregnant women and newborns. Our team conducted broad stakeholder outreach, trained over 2,000 providers on disease testing algorithms, and created public health education materials. Additionally, we deployed pediatric specialists—including neurologists, audiologists, ophthalmologists, and developmental pediatricians—to evaluate infants impacted by the Zika virus, especially in underserved areas like the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Results & Impact
Through strategic planning, expert deployment, and nationwide outreach, Chickasaw Federal helped CDC NCBDDD advance its capabilities in identifying and responding to maternal and infant health threats. We enabled better coordination between state, local, and federal health agencies, filled critical gaps in care for vulnerable populations, and educated thousands of healthcare providers and public health officials—directly supporting improved care delivery and long-term outcomes. Key achievements include:
- Developed a national Emerging Threats Response Playbook, first launched in 2016
- Supported CDC’s response to COVID-19, syphilis, and hepatitis in maternal and infant populations
- Educated 2,000+ healthcare providers on testing algorithms for emerging threats
- Evaluated and provided services to approximately 300 Zika-affected infants in the U.S. Virgin Islands
- Created public health education materials for community and agency-wide use
- Delivered expert-led presentations for the SET-NET Data Use working call
- Deployed pediatric specialists across multiple disciplines to expand clinical access in underserved regions
