The Fund supports networks of state health policy decision makers to help identify, inspire, and inform policy leaders.
A bipartisan group of state health policymakers from both the executive and legislative branches who are focused on improving population health.
Networks of state officials, advocates, and others aiming to invest in and transform primary care.
A program dedicated to advancing state-based efforts to make health care more affordable for residents, employers, and states.
The Milbank Memorial Fund supports two state leadership programs for legislative and executive branch state government officials committed to improving population health.
A leadership development program for early and mid-career state government officials who are committed to improving the health of all people in their communities.
A leadership program for senior state government officials who are committed to improving population health.
The Fund focuses on creating an affordable health care system built on strong primary care and partnerships that improve health outcomes for all.
Improving state leaders’ ability to enact and implement evidence-based health policies.
Advancing policies that create a more prevention- and primary care-oriented health system.
Improving population health through policies that contain health care cost growth.
Our state health policy resources offer relevant data analysis and best practices.
The Fund publishes reports, issues briefs, and case studies on state health policy issues.
Short takes on health policy issues from Milbank staff and guest authors.
Insights from Milbank President Debra Lubar on state health policymaking.
Reported articles and Q&As on timely health policy issues, as well as foundation updates.
Milbank Memorial Fund and Milbank Quarterly webinars featuring state health policymakers and researchers.
Updates and expert contact information for reporters.
The Milbank Memorial Fund is a private foundation that works to improve population health and health equity.
March 1974 (Volume 52)
Quarterly Article
Edward R. Schlesinger
Sep 22, 2026
Back to The Milbank Quarterly
The reciprocal relationships between developments in maternal and child health legislation at the federal level and those at state and local levels are examined critically. The paper traces the sources of preventive health services in maternity and infant care, school health services, and sick-child care in France, Germany, and England, respectively, and suggests that these three streams have remained largely independent of each other over the years in the United States. It examines the historical backgrounds and significance for the future of recent changes in the organizational structure of maternal and child health services within the federal government. The current scene in maternal and child health is assessed. Recommendations are made to help insure (1) that the developmental needs of children are met within the evolving forms of comprehensive health services for all ages; (2) that the health needs of children are not overlooked as part of early childhood care or ancillary to education at all levels; and (3) that health concerns receive adequate consideration in social measures for mothers and children.
Author(s): Edward R. Schlesinger
Download the Article
Read on JSTOR
Volume 52, Issue 1 (pages 1–13) Published in 1974