The greatest predictor of a child’s health should not be their zip code.

The Center for the Urban Child and Healthy Family embodies BMC’s vision of rewriting healthcare, working to ensure every child and family can thrive. By driving change in clinical practice, systems, and policy, we promote health equity and eliminate disparities.

As an innovation hub within the Department of Pediatrics, our center develops, tests, and supports new ways to improve care. We collaborate with doctors, families, communities, and partner organizations to build meaningful, lasting change.

Our work is guided by the belief that mental and physical health are deeply connected and equally important. We also recognize that financial stability is key to long-term health, and that creative approaches to social needs help families stay healthy and stable. 

Our History and Impact

BMC Pediatrics has launched some of the world's most important and widely disseminated care innovations including Reach Out and Read, Medical-Legal Partnership, Streetcred, and the Health by Wealth Collective. In 2016, we launched the Center for the Urban Child and Healthy Family to revolutionize the model of care for pediatric patients and their families, standing at the epicenter of clinical care, research, and the community. 

Since its launch, the Center has continued to expand its impact through nationally recognized programs and partnerships that improve health, strengthen families, and advance equity.

6,500+ Reach Out and Read Programs Founded

Established nationwide, these programs empower families to read together—supporting early learning, healthy brain development, and strong family bonds.

450+ Institutions with Medical-Legal Partnerships

These collaborations bring lawyers into healthcare settings to resolve health-harming legal issues and strengthen community well-being.

35 Health by Wealth Members in 11 States

Health by Wealth improves health and well-being in disadvantaged communities, reducing inequality through strategic, community-based programs.

Innovation in Action Today

Description

Every day, our pediatric programs put innovation into practice—designing new models of care that meet families where they are and address the full spectrum of health, social, and economic needs.