Dr. Debbie Almontaser’s Post

It was an honor to hear Esa M Davis, MD MPH FAAFP share her powerful story at the “Mitigating the Impact of Racism on Maternal and Child Health” event. Her journey through postpartum heart failure highlighted the systemic barriers Black mothers face—barriers reflected in Maryland’s alarming maternal mortality rate of 21.3 per 100,000, with 80% of these deaths preventable. 📊 The facts are clear: Hypertensive disorders and systemic racism are major contributors. 💡 The solution is clearer: Evidence-based interventions like blood pressure screenings during pregnancy can save lives. Health equity means ensuring every mother has a fair chance at a safe and healthy pregnancy. Together, we can build a future where no mother is left behind. 🤝 #HealthEquity #MaternalHealth #EndDisparities #CommunityCare

Quality healthcare should be available to everyone, ensuing the best possible health outcomes. This week, CT Paid Leave recognizes Black Maternal Health Week. According to the Center for American Progress, Black women are 3x more likely to die than white women during pregnancy, childbirth, and up to one year postpartum due to lower quality health care, endure racial bias and mistreatment in care, and face a heightened risk of complications from underlying chronic conditions. Even more striking - 80% of pregnancy-related deaths in the US are preventable. Learn more about Black Maternal Health Week, including what you can do, at https://lnkd.in/ehYr8bpt

The U.S. has one of the highest maternal mortality rates, and Black women are disproportionately affected. We can’t sit back and accept this.   Today kicks off #BlackMaternalHealthWeek, a time to bring attention and action to improving Black maternal health.   ☑️ At Florida Blue, we’ve created a maternal health equity dashboard to better identify disparities and determine where to deploy solutions and resources.   ☑️ We’re piloting solutions at the local level that can be scaled more broadly across the state.   ☑️ And we’re partnering with providers to connect members with community-based resources and support.   Together, we can all serve as a voice for Black women before, during and after pregnancy, and help change the trajectory of maternal health outcomes in our country. #BMHW #BMHW24 #BlackMaternalHealthWeek

Centering #BlackMaternalHealth and wellness is not just a week on our calendar, it's a value and priority that guides all of our work. Follow Black Mamas Matter Alliance, Inc. (BMMA) for more on the need for #BlackMaternalHealthWeek and how you can participate!

Today starts the 7th annual #BlackMaternalHealthWeek. According to the latest CDC data, the maternal mortality rate for non-Hispanic Black women was 69.9 deaths per 100,000 live births, making Black women three times more likely to die from a pregnancy-related cause than white women. The CDC notes that more than 80 percent of pregnancy related deaths are preventable. We must do more to ensure equity for #BlackMamas. Unlocking the future of maternal health begins with research. Every person deserves access to quality and holistic health care. #BMHW24 

We recognize Black Maternal Health Week to raise awareness of health disparities in minority communities regarding maternal and infant health. The U.S. healthcare system has historically failed Black women, including during the crucial time of pregnancy. Black women are nearly three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes compared to White women. And preterm birth rates are 50 percent higher among Black women, than they are among White or Hispanic women. Multiple health, societal, and economic factors are all contributors, including unequal access to maternity care. These chronic inequities and unequal access to quality care contribute to higher rates of maternal and infant health complications. Together, we can fight to end the maternal and infant health crisis. Join us to demand #BlanketChange from lawmakers: https://lnkd.in/g6bGxk3Y #MarchForChange #BlackMaternalHealthWeek

#BlackMaternalHealth is an everyone problem. If we are allowing Black birthing people to go into the birthing room with a risk of mortality on par with some of the lowest-resource countries in the world, what does that say about us as a country? If we have abundant access to money and technology and education yet we still allow the color of someone's skin dictate whether they receive high quality care during pregnancy and birth, what does that say about our healthcare system? If you are enjoying an empowered, safe, and healthy perinatal journey but not using your privilege to ensure ALL parents and babes get this experience as well, what does that say about you as a parent? Everyone should be investing in solving the racism and healthcare crisis. At Nurturely, perinatal equity is not just a week, it is a centerpoint of our work and the primary focus of our multicultural team. Thank you to Black Mamas Matter Alliance, Inc. (BMMA) for founding #BlackMaternalHealthWeek to raise awareness of this urgent cause. #BMHW24 #maternalhealth

Let's talk Black Maternal Health Week! From April 11 to 17, we're spotlighting the need to improve Black maternal health. Did you know? Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women due to factors like health care quality, chronic conditions, and racism. It's crucial for everyone to take action to prevent pregnancy-related deaths and ensure moms-to-be receive proper care. Let's explore how we can support pregnant individuals and reduce complications during pregnancy. Together, we can make a difference! Learn more: https://lnkd.in/giDneak9 #BlackMaternalHealth #PrimeWestHealth

As Black Maternal Health Week comes to a close, let's end on a note of empowerment and awareness. Throughout this week, we've shed light on critical issues like preterm birth weight, premature babies, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and even the impact of oral health on maternal well-being. But our journey doesn't end here. It's a reminder that we must continue advocating for equitable access to healthcare for all mothers, regardless of race. Every mom deserves the support and resources necessary for a healthy pregnancy journey. As we wrap up this important week, let's carry forward the conversations, the advocacy, and the commitment to making a positive change in maternal health outcomes. Together, we can make a difference. #BlackMaternalHealthWeek #HealthEquity #NurturingSmiles

BCBS companies are proud to celebrate Black Maternal Health Week -founded by Black Mamas Matter Alliance, Inc. (BMMA) - and stand with all those who advocate for Black maternal health equity. We won’t rest until every mom and baby go home healthy. These are the steps we’re taking to arrest the maternal health crisis, in collaboration with providers, advocates, policymakers and moms to make every stage of pregnancy equitable and safe for everyone: https://lnkd.in/gtix3PFf #BMHW24