HISTORY:

In 1994 and 1995, the Indiana State Department of Health and the Indiana Chapter of March of Dimes held a series of town forums and task force meetings around the state. During these meetings, Indiana communities were called upon to explore their unique perinatal challenges and goals.

Findings from the statewide meetings formed the basis for the Indiana Perinatal Systems Strategic Plan for the 21st Century, published in June 1996. Later that year, ISDH provided funding through the March of Dimes to begin implementing the Strategic Plan.

In 1998, the Indiana Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Perinatal Association voted to join forces, establishing the Indiana Perinatal Network as an independent not-for-profit organization.

IPN has grown to a staff of 8 employees housed in dedicated office building on the north side of Indianapolis. Our membership has grown to nearly 700 individuals and organizations from all corners of the state.

In 2008, we hosted the inaugural statewide Perinatal Forum, Controversies & Innovations in Perinatal Health, now an annual event, and introduced the Regional Training series designed to bring quality education close to home at an affordable price. In 2010, we convened the first-ever Perinatal Hospital Summit, delivering important clinical and regulatory updates and shared best practices to 95% of Indiana's birthing hospitals. Convening unique educational events is just one of the many ways we accomplish our mission of leading Indiana to improve the health of all mothers and babies.