Addressing Black Maternal Health Disparities Through Culturally Competent Care

Each year, Black Maternal Health Week, observed from April 11 to 17, shines a light on a significant health crisis in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Black women are disproportionately affected, facing a threefold higher risk of dying from pregnancy-related complications compared to their white counterparts. This alarming statistic underscores the systemic racial disparities present within the healthcare system.

To delve deeper into these challenges, an associate professor from the Rutgers New Jersey Medical School (NJMS), who is dedicated to improving maternal health outcomes, has shared insights on the barriers Black mothers encounter, the necessity for culturally competent care, and the initiatives undertaken by Rutgers Health to address these disparities.

The issue of Black maternal health is critical, reflecting a nation's overall well-being. Poor maternal health can have far-reaching implications, affecting families and diminishing women's productivity both at home and in their workplaces. Disparities between non-Hispanic Black and non-Hispanic white women have persisted for decades, with even well-educated and higher socioeconomic status Black women experiencing unfavorable health outcomes.

Several factors contribute to these disparities, including health conditions such as preeclampsia, a family history of pregnancy complications, and higher instances of hypertension and diabetes. Social determinants of health--such as access to care and economic barriers--alongside environmental stressors and implicit biases within the healthcare system, further exacerbate the challenges faced by Black mothers.

During pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care, Black women encounter numerous obstacles. Institutionalized racism in healthcare, overlooked social determinants of health, and a lack of awareness regarding critical warning signs are prevalent issues. Recognizing signs of complications after childbirth is essential for both mothers and healthcare providers.

Rutgers NJMS adopts a multifaceted approach to tackle the maternal health crisis through comprehensive research, patient care, and community engagement. The institution is committed to fostering health equity and has implemented various programs aimed at improving maternal health outcomes in the Newark community. Key initiatives include a doula program that offers support during prenatal, labor, and postpartum stages, a specialized pregnancy clinic that addresses gaps in prenatal care, and the Healthy Moms Clinic, which provides ongoing care for mothers with pre-existing medical conditions.

For expectant Black mothers seeking to advocate for themselves, it is advised to prepare questions ahead of medical appointments. Understanding recommended procedures is crucial, and bringing a supportive family member or friend can help ensure that important details are retained during consultations.

Healthcare providers and institutions must critically evaluate their practices to prevent unintentional disenfranchisement of specific patient communities. A common misconception is that treating all patients equally suffices; however, tailored approaches that recognize individual circumstances are necessary. Utilizing technology to address barriers like transportation and implementing evidence-based protocols can greatly enhance care delivery. Furthermore, social services should be aimed at facilitating healthcare access rather than stigmatizing patients.

Black Maternal Health Week serves as a vital campaign established by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance to raise awareness, foster activism, and build community support for Black mothers and birthing individuals. The timing of the week aligns with National Minority Health Month and the International Day for Maternal Health and Rights, emphasizing the need for global advocacy to eliminate maternal mortality. This week provides a crucial opportunity to reevaluate healthcare practices and to better serve the needs of all patients, particularly Black women who face increased health risks.