The Urgency of Improving Black Maternal Health
Healthcare professionals are being called upon to play a significant role in improving Black maternal health. Amidst the celebration of Black History Month, it is crucial that we acknowledge and address the disparities in health outcomes for Black mothers. This call to action is underscored by Dr. Barfield from CDC_DRH, who emphasizes the need to ensure that women feel heard and supported during pregnancy and postpartum care.
Addressing Substance Use Disorders and Maternal Health
As part of the efforts to improve Black maternal health, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is focusing on addressing substance use disorders within the Black community. Resources have been tailored to meet the unique needs of the community, and a partnership with the African American Behavioral Health Center of Excellence has been forged to address maternal health disparities. The work being done during Black History Month is not only a celebration of the community’s resilience and strength, but also an urgent call to address the systemic issues affecting Black mothers.
The Morehouse School of Medicine Center for Maternal Health Equity’s Initiatives
Dr. Natalie Hernandez Green, Executive Director of the Morehouse School of Medicine Center for Maternal Health Equity, has highlighted the glaring disparities in maternal health outcomes for Black women. The tragic case of Kira Johnson underscores the need for better care and advocacy for Black mothers. In response, the Center is working with local hospitals to gather data and educate Patient Navigators to assist Black women, particularly those in maternal care deserts. With the majority of pregnancy-related deaths being preventable, there is hope in the interventions of Patient Navigators, Doulas, and Midwives.
Efforts to Improve Maternal Health Care
The crisis of maternal mortality among Black women in the United States is alarming. Individuals like Bay Area doula Marna Armstead and obstetrician Dr. Angelyn Thomas are making significant strides to improve maternal health care. They are battling the impacts of racism and implicit bias on health outcomes and championing prevention through education, training, and support for expecting mothers.
L.A. Care Health Plan’s Role in Advancing Health Equity
As part of their commitment to advancing health equity, L.A. Care Health Plan has been hosting and sponsoring several events focused on providing information on important healthcare services and cultural enrichment. These events include a session titled ‘Navigating Maternal Health’, aimed at increasing awareness about maternal health issues, and the infant and maternal mortality rate in the African American community.
Addressing the Black Maternal Health Crisis
Nationwide, Black women die from pregnancy-related complications at a rate three times higher compared to white women, regardless of income level and education. This crisis impacts Black babies as well, who die at thrice the rate of white babies during their initial hospital stays. However, there is determination in the face of these daunting statistics. The Biden-Harris Administration and the Department of Health and Human Services are investing in community-tailored programs and taking action to connect mothers with culturally competent care. They are also promoting timely treatment and quality care, strengthening public health infrastructure, and ensuring that equity is at the core of every rollout, investment, and policy conversation.