Melissa Tran, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, PMH-C, is a licensed marriage and family therapist dedicated to ensuring equitable, convenient, and effective perinatal care for Veterans and their families through VA. Recognizing gaps in perinatal support, Melissa launched the Perinatal Reproductive Education Planning and Resources (PREPARe) program in 2021. PREPARe has significantly improved access to high-quality care, resulting in better outcomes for mothers, infants, and families.

 

PREPARe offers comprehensive perinatal support, including individual counseling, group therapy, educational workshops, and services such as lactation counseling, pelvic floor physical therapy, and nutrition education. It prioritizes the inclusion of historically underserved populations. With approximately 360 consults to date, PREPARe ensures access to care through telehealth, bridging geographical barriers. The program has improved service coordination, expanded support for infertility and maternity loss, and reduced patient calls related to reimbursement. Melissa's leadership has earned her recognition as one of Modern Healthcare’s 2023 Top 25 Emerging Leaders and a 2023 ACT-IAC Disruptive Tech Change Agent Award winner.

 

PREPARe empowers Veterans by providing personalized care, education, and a supportive community. It addresses the unique challenges faced during the perinatal period, expanding VA's perinatal services.

 

In addition to program achievements, Melissa has fostered partnerships with local healthcare providers and established a Community of Practice for perinatal care providers. Her upcoming Maternal Health Summit showcases her commitment to collaboration and innovation in meeting the unique needs of Veterans and their families.