The United States has ranked below other developed countries in maternal morbidity and mortality for several years

    The United States has ranked below other developed countries in maternal morbidity and mortality for several years and has not met the associated Healthy People 2030 goal. Maternal health is a critical factor for the live birth of a healthy infant. Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) along with Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are factors that influence maternal morbidity and mortality. Choose two factors from SDOH or DEI that have influenced maternal morbidity and mortality in the United States. What are some best practices in health promotion that could improve maternal health outcomes? Provide a community resource or program in your area that is focused on improving maternal and infant health. Describe their services and provide a link or contact information for your resource.  

Sample Solution

     

The United States has faced significant challenges in improving maternal morbidity and mortality rates. Two key factors from the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) that have influenced these outcomes are:

  1. Economic Disparity: Low-income individuals often have limited access to quality healthcare, nutritious food, safe housing, and transportation. These factors can significantly impact maternal health outcomes, increasing the risk of complications and mortality.

Full Answer Section

     
  1. Racial and Ethnic Disparities: Black women in the United States are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women. These disparities are rooted in systemic racism, implicit bias, and unequal access to healthcare.

Best Practices for Improving Maternal Health Outcomes

To address these challenges and improve maternal health outcomes, several best practices can be implemented:

  • Expanding Access to Quality Healthcare: Increasing access to affordable, culturally competent healthcare, including prenatal care, can help identify and address potential risks early in pregnancy.
  • Addressing Social Determinants of Health: Implementing programs that address social determinants of health, such as housing assistance, food security initiatives, and transportation options, can help improve overall health and reduce maternal morbidity and mortality.  
  • Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Creating a healthcare system that is inclusive and equitable can help reduce disparities in maternal health outcomes. This involves addressing implicit bias, ensuring culturally competent care, and increasing the diversity of the healthcare workforce.
  • Community-Based Programs: Supporting community-based programs that provide education, support, and resources to pregnant women and new mothers can help improve maternal and infant health outcomes.

Community Resource: Kisumu County Reproductive and Child Health Program

In Kisumu County, Kenya, the Kisumu County Reproductive and Child Health Program is focused on improving maternal and infant health. This program provides a range of services, including:

  • Antenatal care: Regular check-ups to monitor the health of pregnant women and identify potential risks.
  • Family planning services: Contraception and counseling to help couples plan their families.
  • Safe delivery services: Skilled birth attendants and access to emergency obstetric care.
  • Maternal and child health education: Community outreach programs to promote healthy behaviors and prevent maternal and child mortality.

Link: [Kisumu County Government Website] (Please provide the link to the Kisumu County Government website)

By addressing the underlying social determinants of health and promoting equity and inclusion, the United States can make significant progress in improving maternal morbidity and mortality rates. Community-based programs like the Kisumu County Reproductive and Child Health Program play a vital role in providing essential services and support to pregnant women and new mothers

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