History
The history of NPA can be traced to an enthusiastic group of perinatal champions in the Wisconsin Perinatal Association which initiated the coordination of perinatal health professionals and advocates concerned with the health of mothers and babies in the Midwest and formed the Great Plains Association of Perinatal Care. And in 1976, seventy people from across the country gathered in Columbus, Ohio to discuss the feasibility of organizing a National Perinatal Association in 1976.
Between 1976 and 1978, the National Perinatal Association took shape through the work of committees for programs, constitution and by-laws, membership, and finance. In 1977, NPA incorporated in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. On November 22, NPA's first position paper, "Perinatal Health Care", was submitted to the Department of Health, Education and Welfare and to Congress.
By 1981, NPA was gaining strength and influence and moved its office from Kentucky to Washington, D.C. establishing a political national office there. The first issues of the Bulletin and the "Washington Report" were distributed. The NPA leadership became actively involved in Baby Doe legislation/regulation issues. By 1986, NPA consisted of 30 State associations as well as two regional and ten national organizations. The Council provided the leadership and D&S Whyte Associates provided management expertise. The 1980s proved to be a period of rapid growth for NPA with program expansion, development of a resolutions process to help guide the organization, enlargement of the Board and Council, improved membership services, growth in public policy influence with increased visibility, and innovative collaborations with other organizations in the perinatal area.
By 1990, NPA had grown to the point that fundamental restructuring was needed and underwent a complete reorganization that began with an extensive strategic planning effort. Although much of the Association's energies were directed inward at restructuring and attaining financial solvency, NPA continued to present annual clinical conferences and participate in the development of the March of Dimes document, "Toward Improving the Outcome of Pregnancy."
1992 marked the beginning of the restructured and revitalized NPA. The commitment to, and belief in, the role and mission of NPA are unwavering. NPA's members are dedicated to fostering optimal perinatal health by promoting education, supporting research, and influencing national priorities.
Since its beginning, NPA has provided a forum for nurses, nurse practitioners, midwives, pediatricians, obstetricians, family physicians, social workers, nutritionists, clinical geneticists, genetic counselors, developmental specialists, respiratory therapists, out-reach workers, consumers, administrators, educators, legislators, and all others interested in perinatal health. We encompass fifty states and have formed coalitions with state perinatal associations and numerous other nonprofit organizations.
NPA is national. NPA is multidisciplinary. NPA is committed. These three strengths make NPA uniquely effective to respond to a persistent national concern: limited access to adequate, risk-appropriate perinatal care for families in the United States.
Mission
The National Perinatal Association promotes the health and well being of mothers and infants enriching families, communities and our world.
Vision
NPA will engage the broadest possible coalition to improve social, cultural and economic environments for the optimal health and well being of mothers, infants and families.
Values
- Relationship Building - Collaborate with all whom share our mission and vision.
- Education - Provide a multi-disciplinary forum to promote research utilization and practical applications, to improve the quality of care, caring and outcomes.
- Advocacy - Champion positive changes in conditions, policies, programs and practices to improve health.
- Leadership - Develop and inspire passionate mentors, role models and guides committed to our mission and vision.