A Comprehensive Approach to Maternal Mortality and Disparate Racial Outcomes [02C]. (May 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wilcox, Wendy C.; James-Conterelli, Sascha
• Is Part Of: Obstetrics and gynecology. Volume 135(2020)Supplement 1
• Publication Date: 2020-05
• Subjects: Obstetrics -- Periodicals; Gynecology -- Periodicals; 618
• DOI: 10.1097/01.AOG.0000663240.00907.dd
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0029-7844

Abstract

Abstract : INTRODUCTION: New York State ranks 30th in the nation for maternal mortality despite over a decade of statewide efforts to address the crisis. Although there has been a decrease in overall maternal mortality, the disparity between black, non-Latina women and white women have dramatically increased. Black women are 3–4 times more likely to die relative to their white counterparts in New York State and 12–14 times more likely to die in New York City. In April 2018 Governor Cuomo's Task Force was convened to address the issues of maternal mortality and racial disparities. This multidisciplinary task force consisted of a diverse group of stakeholders with Wendy Wilcox, MD, MBA, MPH, FACOG and Sascha James-Conterelli, DNP, CNM, FACNM as co-chairs. METHODS: Global, national and statewide data on maternal mortality data was reviewed using published data from the Centers for Disease Control, New York State and New York City Department of Health. We examined early statewide efforts to decrease maternal mortality which focused solely on addressing clinical issues. We convened community Listening Sessions across New York State in the summer of 2018, as well as a Symposium on Implicit Bias and Racial Disparities in Obstetrical Care. RESULTS: A comprehensive approach was adopted to address pervasive issue of maternal mortality which remains high in New York State, as well as the increasing rate of racial disparity. CONCLUSION: The Maternal Mortality Task force crafted recommendations to focus on more inclusivity between physicians and midwives, including the voice of the patient and addressing racial and discrimination.