The Center for Leadership Education in Maternal and Child Public Health is especially aware of the health disparities that exist for priority populations, and researchers continue to work with community partners to gain insight into these complex issues and create practical ways to alleviate health inequities.
Maternal and Child Health (MCH) has historically addressed the health needs of disadvantaged and vulnerable populations, namely women and children. As the field has evolved and expanded, MCH has grown to include a more diverse spectrum of populations that have a disproportionately higher risk for poor health outcomes. These underserved populations include individuals with disabilities, individuals who have been incarcerated, and individuals from the following communities: GLBT, homeless, immigrant, refugee, and low socio-economic status.