The Southern Center for Maternal Health Equity (SCMHE): a multisector multifaceted community-based approach to reduce disparities in maternal morbidity and mortality in the Gulf South
2024

Reducing Maternal Health Disparities in the Gulf South

publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Goldin Evans Melissa, Wallace Maeve, Bazzano Alessandra N., Biggio Joseph R. Jr., Cruz Kiara, Gamble Abigail, Green Carmen, Jah Zainab, Longo Sherri, Perez Susan, Reed Rachael N., Shaffer Jeffrey G., Shi Lizheng, Harville Emily

Primary Institution: Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine

Hypothesis

An interactive, multifaceted respectful maternity care intervention will reduce provider biases and improve patient satisfaction and health outcomes.

Conclusion

The Southern Center for Maternal Health Equity aims to improve maternal health outcomes and reduce disparities through community-centered and equity-focused approaches.

Supporting Evidence

  • Black women are three to four times more likely to experience maternal mortality compared to White women.
  • Most maternal deaths are preventable, especially among Black women.
  • Louisiana and Mississippi consistently rank in the top 5 for the highest rates of maternal mortality.

Takeaway

This study is about helping Black women in the Gulf South have healthier pregnancies by working with communities and hospitals to make care better.

Methodology

The study uses a multilevel life course approach based on the Social Ecological Model to implement interventions at various levels.

Potential Biases

Potential biases in healthcare delivery and research participation may affect outcomes.

Participant Demographics

Focus on Black women in the Gulf South, particularly in Louisiana and Mississippi.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3389/fpubh.2024.1465779

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