Maternal Health
The AHA this week launched refreshed webpages dedicated to maternal and child health.
Improving maternal and infant health in the U.S. is a priority for the AHA and our member hospitals and health systems. While the field has made progress, we are continuing to work toward reducing health disparities.
Hospitals, health systems, clinicians and their community partners are dedicated to improving care for mothers and infants.
Plenty of babies and parents leave the hospital with a few gifts, whether it鈥檚 a signature onesie or an extra pack of diapers. But for those leaving University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Medical Center in Bel Air, the 鈥淩eadiness Bag鈥 is not just for the body, but for the mind.
To address preventable obstetric issues, Houston Methodist strengthens protocols with simulation training and communication tools like TeamSTEPPS.
Non-medical social factors can have a significant impact on a pregnant person鈥檚 health and well-being. These AHA resources highlight how hospitals can address their patients' social needs to achieve better health outcomes.
Maternal Mental HealthMental health and substance use issues are the leading underlying causes of maternal morbidity and mortality. Maternal mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorder are the most prominent complications of pregnancy, child birth, and鈥
Infant mortality rate in the U.S is on a rise. These resources showcase ways hospitals and health systems are preventing infant mortality within and outside hospital walls.
Rural populations have limited access and availability of quality maternity care. With many labor and delivery units closing, hospitals and health systems are exploring various ways to provide maternity care. AHA highlights stories from rural hospitals below.
A comprehensive and coordinated care approach among health care professionals can improve health outcomes. Resources below highlight ways hospitals and health systems are implementing various perspectives and skillsets to meet the needs of mothers and families.