The Developing Families Center Case Study

The Developing Families Center was started in 2000 in Northeast D.C. to provide support programs and primary health care to low-income populations in one of the poorest areas of Washington. In addition to housing the only free-standing birthing center in the District, the organizations within the DFC provide midwife-led antenatal care, nurse-led primary health care, support groups for teen parents, and early childhood development programs. Patients who receive care through the DFC are more satisfied and experience lower rates of Caesarean section, low birthweight, and preterm birth.