Listen to this articleUPMC Magee-Womens Hospital has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report for its success in supporting Black maternal health.
Recognition for the central Pennsylvania hospital comes during Black Maternal Health Week, April 11-17. According to a release, UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital is the only Pennsylvania hospital to be recognized by U.S. News & World Report.
“We are honored to be recognized for our efforts in improving maternal health outcomes for Black women,” Richard Beigi, president, UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital said in a statement. “Here at UPMC, our providers, nurses, hospital staff and community members are all working toward health equity and creating positive birthing experiences for all vulnerable populations – especially pregnant people of color.”
In December, UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital was recognized as a high-performing maternity care hospital. In the U.S. News analysis, only 26 hospitals achieved excellent outcomes for cesarean section and unexpected newborn complications among Black patients.
A release stated that the use of doulas has been “a major focus at UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital for all underserved women and is documented to provide better clinical outcomes for both the birthing person and baby.” The release noted that the Birth Circle Doulas of Magee program provides individualized doula support at no cost for at-risk women experiencing a disproportionate disadvantage from adverse social determinants of health during pregnancy, delivery, and the postpartum period with face-to-face encounters and remote support.
“The ability to deliver doula support during pregnancy with the right people to the right patient is essential to eliminate health disparities for all women of color in the local community,” said Beigi.