Shining a Light on the Systemic Barriers in Black Maternal Health and the Importance of Patient Feedback

The ongoing challenges and disparities in maternal health faced by Black women in the United States are being highlighted during Black Maternal Health Week, which is currently being observed. Among the 26 hospitals recognized for achieving excellent outcomes for c-section and unexpected newborn complications among Black patients, only one Florida hospital made the list – Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center.

Lakeland Regional Health’s director of community health, Lauren Springfield, emphasized the importance of programs like their Maternal Focus Care initiative, which allows mothers to provide direct feedback on their care. This initiative not only gives a voice to the patient but also empowers them to advocate for themselves, especially considering that historically, Black, brown, and other birthing persons may have not felt comfortable doing so.

Dr. Yolanda Lawson, the President of the National Medical Association, pointed out that maternal health disparities exist even among highly educated Black women with college degrees, who face five times the risk of maternal mortality compared to their counterparts. She emphasized that there is still a long way to go in ensuring maternal health for all Black women in the United States.

Black Maternal Health Week serves as a reminder of these ongoing challenges and disparities in maternal health faced by Black women in the United States. The recognition of hospitals like Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center for their efforts in improving black maternal health outcomes is a step in the right direction towards achieving health equity for all.