Supports and Services for Expectant and Parenting Youth in Foster Care - Missouri
Youth's Parental Rights
Citation: Code of Regs. Tit. 13, § 35-71.120
The decision to keep or relinquish the infant shall be the right of the birth parent(s). This decision shall be made without undue pressure or influence. At the request of the birth parent, the professional staff shall arrange for referral to a licensed child-placing agency.
Placement Options
Citation: Child Welf. Man, Sec. 4, Ch. 2, § 2.1.14
Residential care services are available to serve pregnant and parenting adolescents to help prepare them for parenthood and self-sufficiency.
Health Services
Citation: Code of Regs. Tit. 13, § 35-71.120
There shall be a written plan for all deliveries to take place in a licensed hospital. Each resident shall receive the services of a licensed physician on a regular and continuing basis throughout pregnancy, delivery, and postdelivery checkups.
The maternity residence shall provide for consultation from a licensed obstetrician who shall be available in an emergency. A licensed nurse shall be accessible on an as needed basis for pre- and postnatal care.
The resident's medical record shall include a medical consent form, the name of the health-care provider, a schedule of appointments, documentation of pre- and postnatal care, the expected date of delivery, and any special needs or problems.
Parent Preparation for Expectant Youth
Citation: Code of Regs. Tit. 13, § 35-71.120
The maternity residence shall, at a minimum, provide a program to residents addressing prenatal care, labor, delivery, nutrition, general health and hygiene, postnatal care, family planning, sexually transmitted disease, and child-care techniques.
Upon dismissal from the maternity residence, each resident shall be given written information regarding postnatal care.
Education and Services to Support Parenting Youth
The issue of assisting parenting youth in finishing high school is not addressed in the laws and policies reviewed. For information on assisting youth in foster care complete high school, see Educational Supports for Youth in Foster Care - Missouri | Child Welfare Information Gateway.
Economic and Concrete Supports
This issue is not addressed in the laws and policies reviewed.
Services and Supports for Parenting Youth That Promote Self-Sufficiency
This issue is not addressed in the laws and policies reviewed.
Foster Care Prevention Strategy for any Child Born to the Youth
Citation: Code of Regs. Tit. 13, § 35-71.120
Professional staff shall be responsible for development of a long-term plan for the mother and infant. This plan shall be developed with the involvement of the mother and the legal guardian.