Making Maternal Child Health a Population Health Priority in Maryland.

This case study illustrates state legislative advocacy in action in Maryland. Success in strengthening maternal and child health is described using the Academic Pediatric Association's 4-step approach to advocacy: (1) Identify the Issue and Target Audience; (2) Craft the Message; (3) Develop Relationships and Coalitions, and (4) Communicate the Message. Starting with state legislation and formation of a Maryland Maternal Child Health Task Force led to maternal child health named as 1 of 3 state population health priorities. This guided subsequent programmatic investment and attention. Further dissemination of task force recommendations has led to additional supportive legislation.