Nashville-based HCA and the March of Dimes recently announced a collaborative effort on research, community and educational opportunities to improve the health of mothers and babies. As part of the partnership, HCA - which operates 171 hospitals in 20 states and the United Kingdom and is responsible for delivering nearly 220,000 babies annually - will give $1.5 million to the March of Dimes over three years. Up to another $1.5 million will be raised through March of Dimes fundraising events, such as March for Babies, held by HCA-affiliated hospitals during the next three years.

In addition to the financial support, fundraising and educational events and clinical research, HCA hospitals will offer the March of Dimes NICU Family Support® program. This program provides comfort and educational materials to families who have a newborn in intensive care, as well as evidence-based training to caregivers to help improve communication and teamwork with NICU families.