The U-S is among a relatively few countries in the world where the rate of death in mothers during or after pregnancy is climbing instead of falling. One mid-Michigan hospital has announced it’s work with a program to address the issue.
MidMichigan Health says it’s enacting protocols which provide more attention for postpartum mothers. It’s aimed at addressing things like preeclampsia, which is extremely high blood pressure, and hemorrhaging.
Tonia VanWeiren is Maternal Child Health Director at MidMichigan Health. She said concerns about maternal health has only recently been recognized on the national level.
“An investigation report in USA Today calls for hospitals to monitor women's blood pressure and blood loss during and after birth, and to ensure protocols are in place for quick lifesaving interventions.”
VanWeiren said all new data collected is reported to other participating hospitals so they can learn from one another and improve health care for new mothers.
More information on the effort can be found here.