The South Dakota Department of Health (DOH) proudly marks the 25th anniversary of Bright Start, a trusted statewide home visiting program that has helped more than 5,000 South Dakota families since its launch in 1999. This milestone recognizes not only the program’s long-standing impact on maternal and infant health, but also its growing role as a valuable partner to hospitals, clinics, and providers across the state.
Connecting Moms with Early, Lifesaving Support
Bright Start pairs registered nurses with pregnant women and new mothers to provide in-home visits that begin during pregnancy and continue until the child turns two. Through consistent, one-on-one support, Bright Start nurses offer health education, emotional encouragement, developmental screenings, help navigating healthcare and community services, and interventions that address risks such as postpartum depression, unsafe sleep practices, and poor nutrition.
The program follows the nationally recognized Nurse-Family Partnership model and is offered at no cost to families who meet program criteria. Bright Start is especially impactful in rural and underserved areas, where access to consistent maternal care may be limited.
“Bright Start has been a trusted resource for families across South Dakota for 25 years,” said Secretary of Health Melissa Magstadt. “As we face growing maternal health challenges nationwide, Bright Start continues to be one of the most effective ways to support moms and babies at a critical time in their lives.”
A Valuable Extension of Care for Hospitals
Bright Start is not just a resource for families—it also serves as a valuable partner for hospitals and clinics. By referring eligible patients to Bright Start, healthcare providers can ensure that expectant and new mothers receive extended, wraparound support beyond the hospital or clinic walls. This connection helps reduce avoidable emergency visits, improves birth outcomes, and can support hospitals in meeting quality benchmarks and maternal health goals.
Bright Start nurses reinforce hospital messaging on topics such as prenatal care, infant safety, breastfeeding, immunizations, postpartum mental health, and family planning—helping to bridge gaps between medical visits and support long-term outcomes.
“This type of nursing care is unique,” said Kristy Hazel, a Bright Start nurse of 20 years. “We come alongside new moms as a support, as a confidant, and as a cheerleader. We talk about their concerns, their goals, and how to build a healthy future—for themselves and their babies.”
Refer Today, Impact Tomorrow
Hospitals and providers are encouraged to refer eligible patients early in pregnancy to ensure they receive the full benefits of the Bright Start program. Referrals can be easily submitted online through the Department of Health website.
As South Dakota continues its commitment to reducing infant and maternal mortality, Bright Start offers a proven, people-centered solution that enhances patient care and strengthens community health.
To learn more about Bright Start or to make a referral, visit: doh.sd.gov/programs/bright-start
