Preconception Health About the Preconception Health Council of California (PHCC)

Who We Are

The Preconception Health Council of California (PHCC) is committed to improving the health and well-being of individuals and their partners, ultimately leading to healthier infants and families. Our comprehensive work reflects our inclusive approach that encompasses not only women but all people with the capacity for pregnancy and their partners. Our platform serves as a valuable resource for preconception and interconception health information, healthcare services, sexual and reproductive health services, and psychosocial well-being, benefiting both the public and healthcare professionals.

Our Mission

The mission of the PHCC is to engage individuals, communities, and healthcare organizations in optimizing the health and well-being of individuals and their partners. By doing so, we aim to create healthier infants and families across California.

Our History

Founded in May 2006, the PHCC is a statewide forum dedicated to planning and decision-making for the integration, development, and promotion of preconception health and healthcare. In 2017, the PHCC joined forces with the Preconception Collaborative Improvement and Innovation Network team, supported by HRSA MCHB's Collaborative Improvement and Innovation Network on Infant Mortality (IM CoIIN) initiative. Together, we developed, implemented, and disseminated a woman-centered, clinician-engaged, community-involved approach to the well-woman visit, aimed at improving the preconception health status of women of reproductive age, particularly low-income women and women of color.

The PHCC continues to meet on a quarterly basis, collaborating to enhance health outcomes for individuals who may become pregnant and their partners, regardless of pregnancy intentions.

Our Goals and Objectives

The PHCC has established clear goals, objectives, and activities to implement the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Select Panel Recommendations for the Nation on Preconception Health and Health Care. Our priorities include:

• Integrating preconception health and healthcare into clinical and public health practice.
• Promoting key preconception health messages that address physical and psychosocial well-being to individuals of reproductive age in California.
• Increasing access to preconception care to eliminate disparities in maternal and infant morbidity and mortality.

Our Membership

The PHCC's membership comprises representatives from various agencies and organizations, including:

• Local MCAH Programs
• Community-based organizations
• Health Plans
• Academia
• Professional Associations (ACOG, CAFP)
• Hospitals/Health Systems 

Our council continues to evolve while maintaining its core purpose and mission: to improve health outcomes for all people of reproductive age. We actively engage stakeholders to develop strategic plans aimed at increasing awareness about health issues, improving the availability and access to preconception health services, and adopting a comprehensive health framework that addresses the impact of social determinants on health across the lifespan.

Every Woman California

The Everywoman California website previously served as the main online resource for PHCC. Now, all information can be found on the CDPH Preconception Health​.​​​​​​