Improving Black Maternal Health: A Call to Action for Healthcare Professionals

The Urgency of Improving Black Maternal Health Healthcare professionals are being called upon to play a significant role in improving Black maternal health. Amidst the celebration of Black History Month, it is crucial that we acknowledge and address the disparities in health outcomes for Black mothers. This call to action is underscored by Dr. Barfield from CDC_DRH, who emphasizes the need to ensure that women feel heard and supported during pregnancy and postpartum care. Addressing Substance Use Disorders and Maternal Health As part of the efforts to improve Black maternal health, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is focusing on addressing substance use disorders within the Black community. Resources have been tailored to meet the unique needs of the community, and a partnership with the African American Behavioral Health Center of Excellence has been forged to address maternal health disparities. The work being done during Black History Month is not only a celebration of the community’s resilience and strength, but also an urgent call to address the systemic issues affecting Black mothers. The Morehouse School of Medicine Center for Maternal Health Equity’s Initiatives Dr. Natalie Hernandez Green, Executive Director of the Morehouse School of Medicine Center for...