The Pennsylvania Department of Heath released the results of the 2026 Family Health Needs Assessment Survey which summarizes the input received on maternal, child, and family health across the state.
The survey was launched for 1 month in April 2026 and responses were received from 1,159 Pennsylvanians, representing all 67 counties, including:
- 378 recipients of maternal or child healthcare or support services
- 361 parents or caregivers of someone who received healthcare or support services
- 420 service providers, public health or health care professionals, or partner organizations
Survey respondents described the top three unmet maternal and child health needs in their communities across populations and suggested responsive solutions that could be prioritized:
- Health-related social needs such as transportation, housing, and paid parental leave or childcare
- Improved access to mental healthcare and support before, during, and after pregnancy
- Quality and respectful care and increased autonomy in healthcare decision-making
The results will help the Department of Health Bureau of Family Health identify new and emerging health needs that it should consider as it seeks to advance maternal, child, and family health in communities and networks of care across the state.
This survey is a component of the Bureau of Family Health’s Title V Maternal and Child Health Services Block Grant interim needs assessment.
To learn more about maternal and child health programming supported by the Pennsylvania Department of Health’s Bureau of Family Health, visit the Title V Maternal and Child Health Services Block Grant website.