The Center for Health Equity (CHE), in collaboration with community experts and UCSF researchers, developed a Maternity Care Experiences Data Book— a comprehensive report shedding light on critical trends in maternity care across California. In this blog we are highlighting some key points, but you can read the
full report here.
Summary of Key Findings:
Many birthing individuals report negative experiences with maternity care.
Black, Latine, young, and Medi-Cal-insured populations are particularly affected.
Poor-quality maternity care is linked to severe maternal complications and death.
Racial discrimination in healthcare significantly increases the risk of poor health outcomes.
Negative experiences during delivery, such as not feeling heard by providers, are associated with worse postpartum outcomes, including anxiety and depressive symptoms.
Summary of Calls to Action:
Respectful, supportive communication between providers and birthing individuals.
Equity-focused policies to eliminate judgment, racism, and stigma in maternity care.
Anti-racism training for healthcare providers.
Efforts to diversify the healthcare workforce to better reflect the communities they serve.
By listening to and amplifying the voices of birthing people, we can inform policy and drive quality improvement efforts. MIHA has expanded its assessment to include measures of autonomy, communication, mistreatment, and racial discrimination during delivery.
Read the full report here
This report's findings and calls to action align with BLACK Wellness & Prosperity Center’s mission to improve well-being and prosperity of Black mamas and mothers of color. We are proud of our work with hospitals and providers here in the Central Valley who are committed to work on improving health outcomes.
Check out some of our join efforts:
