The United States has ranked below other developed countries in maternal morbidity and mortality

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The United States has ranked below other developed countries in maternal morbidity and mortality for several years and has not met the associated Healthy People 2030 goal. Maternal health is a critical factor for the live birth of a healthy infant. Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) along with Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are factors that influence maternal morbidity and mortality.

Choose two factors from SDOH or DEI that have influenced maternal morbidity and mortality in the United States. What are some best practices in health promotion that could improve maternal health outcomes? Provide a community resource or program in your area that is focused on improving maternal and infant health. Describe their services and provide a link or contact information for your resource.

Initial discussion question posts should be a minimum of 200 words and include at least two references cited using APA format. Responses to peers or faculty should be 100-150 words and include one reference. Refer to “RN-BSN DQ Rubric” and “RN-BSN Participation Rubric,” located in Class Resources, to understand the expectations for initial discussion question posts and participation posts, respectively.

 

Sample Solution

SDOH and DEI Factors Influencing Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the US

Two significant factors from SDOH and DEI that have influenced maternal morbidity and mortality in the United States are:

1. Socioeconomic Status:

  • Impact: Lower socioeconomic status is associated with limited access to quality healthcare, poor nutrition, and higher levels of stress, all of which can negatively impact maternal health outcomes.
  • Best Practices:
    • Expanding Access to Healthcare: Implementing policies that expand Medicaid coverage and affordable health insurance can increase access to prenatal care and other essential services.
    • Addressing Social Determinants: Programs that address housing instability, food insecurity, and job opportunities can improve overall health and well-being.
    • Community-Based Interventions: Community health workers can provide culturally sensitive health education and support services to underserved populations.

2. Racial and Ethnic Disparities:

  • Impact: Black and Indigenous women in the United States experience significantly higher rates of maternal mortality compared to white women. This disparity is rooted in systemic racism, bias, and discrimination within the healthcare system.
  • Best Practices:
    • Implicit Bias Training: Healthcare providers should undergo training to recognize and address implicit biases that may impact patient care.
    • Cultural Competency: Healthcare providers should be culturally competent to provide culturally sensitive care to diverse populations.
    • Patient-Centered Care: Empowering patients to make informed decisions about their health and involving them in their care can improve outcomes.

Community Resource: [Your Local Health Department or Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program]

[Your Local Health Department or WIC Program] is a community resource dedicated to improving maternal and infant health. They offer a variety of services, including:

  • Prenatal Care: Regular check-ups to monitor the health of the mother and baby.
  • Nutrition Education: Counseling on healthy eating habits during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
  • Breastfeeding Support: Assistance with breastfeeding techniques and challenges.
  • Infant Care: Guidance on infant feeding, sleep, and safety.
  • Family Planning Services: Access to birth control and family planning counseling.

To find your local health department or WIC program, you can:

  1. Contact your primary care physician.
  2. Search online for local health resources.
  3. Call the National WIC Program at 1-800-942-4453.

By addressing SDOH and DEI factors and utilizing community resources, we can work towards improving maternal health outcomes and reducing disparities.

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