Mothers at Risk: Systemic Issues Impacting Maternal Health | Jen Groves

With You at EveryStep

In this thought-provoking episode of "With You at EveryStep," your host Polly Carver-Kimm delves into the complex and often overlooked challenges that impact maternal health and mortality. Joined by Jen Groves, Vice President of Community Health Services at EveryStep, they explore the multifaceted landscape of maternal health care, from pregnancy to postpartum.
The conversation highlights the various factors that contribute to maternal health outcomes, both positive and negative. Transportation barriers, language barriers, and the critical need for access to medical insurance all emerge as significant challenges faced by pregnant individuals. Through dedicated programs like presumptive Medicaid eligibility, EveryStep is working to break down these barriers, ensuring that women receive the care they deserve during their pregnancies and beyond.
The episode also spotlights the disturbing statistic of pregnancy-related deaths that occur during the postpartum period, even up to a year after childbirth. Shockingly, mental health conditions account for a significant portion of these deaths, underscoring the importance of addressing not only physical but also emotional well-being during this vulnerable time.
Jen Groves brings attention to the distressing disparity in maternal mortality rates for black women, fueled by systemic racism and unequal access to quality care. She highlights EveryStep's initiatives, including culturally competent care, black birthing classes, and black doula programs, aimed at reducing these disparities and providing much-needed advocacy and support.
Join us on this enlightening episode of "With You at EveryStep" as we shed light on the systemic issues impacting maternal health, discussing solutions, raising awareness, and empowering pregnant individuals to navigate their journey with the care and support they deserve.

Founded in 1908, EveryStep is known for its ability to help patients, clients, and their families and to support community partners as they navigate challenges, address complicated care issues, and achieve high-quality outcomes.
EveryStep’s more than 30 programs and services support and educate new mothers; assist immigrants and refugees; provide developmental screenings and referrals for children; bring wellness services to communities; deliver in-home care to people who are ill, injured, or facing the end of life; and offer compassionate support to families during times of grief and loss.
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