The first multi-state summit on Black maternal health care was held at the Virginia General Assembly, focusing on local, state, and federal initiatives to improve maternal health outcomes for Black mothers.
The summit featured lawmakers from across the country, discussions, and workshops aimed at addressing the significant disparities in maternal health.
Virginia midwife Nichole Wardlaw shared her personal experiences with the healthcare system, emphasizing the importance of support for Black mothers. Elle Schnetzler, director of BirthCare & Women’s Health in Alexandria, echoed this sentiment, noting the need for tailored care for mothers who share similar backgrounds.
Racial disparities in healthcare have long been documented, with the CDC reporting that Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related issues than their white counterparts.
Factors contributing to this disparity include chronic health conditions, structural racism, and implicit bias within the healthcare system. Virginia Senator L. Louise Lucas highlighted the issue as a moral imperative, not just a health concern.
Virginia House Speaker Don Scott announced plans to introduce a MOMnibus of bills next session to address maternal health, including measures for implicit bias training for medical professionals, maternal mental health care, and paid family leave.
Congressman Bobby Scott emphasized that the issue is preventable and that solutions are within reach.
Wardlaw and Schnetzler called for greater integration of midwives and doulas into the healthcare system, advocating for a client-centered approach.
Additionally, Governor Glenn Youngkin’s Maternal Health Data Task Force recently met to launch a new campaign focusing on heart health in pregnant women, further highlighting the importance of comprehensive maternal health initiatives.