Specialized Care for High-Risk Pregnancies
MyCHN Maternal-Fetal Medicine care provides compassionate, expert care for moms experiencing high-risk pregnancies. We are here to support the health of both mom and baby, every step of the way.
Insurance, CHIP Perinatal, Medicaid, and More Accepted!
How to Know If You Need Maternal Fetal Medicine Services?
You may be referred to a maternal fetal medicine specialist if you:
- Are carrying multiples (twins or more)
- Have a personal or family history of pregnancy complications
- Have chronic health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease
- Develop complications during pregnancy (e.g., preeclampsia, fetal growth concerns)
- Are age 35 or older and expecting
- Have had recurrent pregnancy loss
- Need detailed fetal imaging or diagnostic testing
Our team works closely with you and your OB/GYN to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy.
MFM Services at MyCHN
- High-risk pregnancy consultations
- Advanced ultrasound & fetal imaging
- Prenatal diagnostic testing (e.g., amniocentesis, chorionic villus sampling)
- Management of maternal health conditions in pregnancy
- Preconception counseling
- Genetic counseling
- Extended Care with Case Manager for Children and Pregnant Women
Your Prenatal Care Guide
At MyCHN, we know that pregnancy is a journey filled with questions, changes, and excitement. To help you feel supported every step of the way, we’ve created the OB Binder – a complete resource designed for women during pregnancy.
Our Prenatal Guide includes:
Prenatal Care Roadmap – what to expect at each stage of your pregnancy, from your first visit to delivery.
Health & Wellness Tips – guidance on nutrition, safe medications, managing common pregnancy discomforts, and building healthy routines.
Provider & Services Directory – meet your care team and learn about MyCHN’s integrated services in OB/GYN, pediatrics, behavioral health, dental, and pharmacy.
Support Resources – information on life skills, postpartum care, and therapy groups to help you adjust to motherhood.
What to Expect from Your Visit at MyCHN
- A thorough review of your obstetrical and medical history
- Advanced ultrasound and diagnostic testing
- A personalized care plan tailored to your pregnancy
- Collaboration with your care providers
MyCHN is here to provide the specialized support you deserve and answer all your questions. Let’s walk this journey with you.
Dr. Joanie Hare, MD
Obstetrician-Gynecologist
Meet MyCHN Maternal-Fetal Specialist
Dr. Joanie Hare is a Board-Certified Obstetrician-Gynecologist and Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist with over 25 years of experience in high-risk obstetrics. A trailblazer in her field, Dr. Hare was the first African American physician in Houston to complete a Maternal-Fetal Medicine fellowship and is a founding member of Houston Perinatal Associates. She earned her medical degree from the University of Alabama School of Medicine and completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Baylor College of Medicine, where she served as Administrative Chief Resident. She went on to complete her Maternal-Fetal Medicine fellowship at Pennsylvania Hospital in Philadelphia.
Dr. Hare has built a legacy of leadership and innovation in maternal-fetal care. At The Woman’s Hospital of Texas, she founded and served as Medical Director of the Perinatal Diabetes Program, directed the Maternal Transport Program, and founded the Postpartum Intermediate Care Unit. She also held multiple leadership positions, including Chair of the Department of Obstetrics and President of the Board of Trustees. Her expertise spans the management of complex pregnancies, including those involving multiple gestations, fetal anomalies, maternal comorbidities such as hypertension and diabetes, and cervical insufficiency.
Beyond clinical care, Dr. Hare has contributed to the advancement of maternal health through academic appointments and national advocacy. She is a Voluntary Associate Clinical Professor at the University of Houston College of Medicine and has served on numerous boards, including the March of Dimes, the Cord Blood Association, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Advisory Council on Blood Stem Cell Transplantation.
Dr. Hare has received numerous honors for her dedication to women’s health, including being named a Texas “SuperDoc” in High-Risk Obstetrics and a “Top 30 Influential Woman of Houston.”
Frequently Asked Questions
An MFM specialist is an obstetrician with advanced training in high-risk pregnancies. They provide expert care for individuals with complex medical conditions during pregnancy, as well as for developing babies who may need closer monitoring or testing.
Your OB/GYN or primary care provider may refer you to MFM if your pregnancy requires additional monitoring or specialized care. If you’re unsure whether you need a referral, give us a call and we’ll help guide you through the process.
MFM specialists care for a wide range of situations, including:
- High blood pressure or diabetes in pregnancy
- Previous pregnancy complications
- Multiple gestation (twins, triplets, etc.)
- Advanced maternal age (35+)
- Fetal abnormalities or growth concerns
- Genetic risks or family history of birth defects
- Preterm labor risk or history of preterm delivery
During your visit, our team will review your health history, perform advanced ultrasounds or other diagnostic tests, and provide a detailed care plan. We’ll also collaborate with your OB or midwife to ensure you’re fully supported throughout your pregnancy.
Yes! Our MFM specialists work alongside your regular OB/GYN, offering additional support—not replacing your provider. We help manage specific risks or complications while keeping your OB/GYN involved every step of the way.
Most insurance plans, including Medicaid, cover MFM services when medically necessary. Call 281-824-1480 to verify your coverage and discuss any potential out-of-pocket costs before your appointment.
Yes! If you have a medical condition or prior pregnancy concerns, preconception counseling with an MFM specialist can help you plan for a healthier pregnancy. This is especially recommended for individuals with chronic health conditions or genetic risks.
- CPW is a free support service offered by MyCHN to eligible women and children. If you’re pregnant and facing challenges like housing, transportation, food insecurity, or access to healthcare, our CPW case managers can connect you with vital resources and help you navigate your care.
- Through personalized case management, we work with you to identify your needs and create a plan that supports a healthier pregnancy and postpartum experience. If you’re receiving Maternal Fetal Medicine services and qualify, you can be referred to CPW for additional support during and after your pregnancy.
- CPW is available to pregnant women and children (ages 0–20) who are Medicaid-eligible and have a medical or social need. If you’re not sure whether you qualify, speak to your care coordinator during your visit.
- Enrollment is simple—our team will help you complete the referral and get connected with a case manager who can begin assisting you right away.