Little is known about the effectiveness of outreach activities in SCHIP. This paper identifies outreach activities and other factors that are associated with state and local trends in the number of new SCHIP enrollees.

Presents results from the six-year evaluation, noting that the programs filled important gaps in services, that strong program administration and leadership are associated with better implementation and outcomes, and that coordination with existing clinical services is important.

Notes that the program improved several birth outcomes across the sites studied, reduced infant mortality in two sites, and was particularly successful at linking women and their families to prenatal care.

Examines efforts of 19 tribes in a four-state area to develop a community-based approach, emphasizing Indian culture for addressing infant mortality, and leading to reductions in the adolescent birth rate and improvements in prenatal care.