HRSA Leaders and Cahaba Medical Care Convene Roundtable on Advancing Maternal Health in Rural Alabama
By Sheila Duncan
Reporter
On November 21, 2024, leaders from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) joined Cahaba Medical Care for a roundtable discussion focused on enhancing maternal health in rural Alabama. Held on National Rural Health Day, the event brought together federal and local leaders, healthcare providers, community organizations, and families to address Alabama’s maternal health crisis and highlight solutions to improve health outcomes for mothers and babies. The discussion, part of HRSA’s Enhancing Maternal Health Initiative tour, underscored the critical role of rural healthcare providers like Cahaba Medical Care in combating the state’s high maternal mortality rates and advancing maternal health equity.
Key highlights from the event were stories of impact. Families from Alabama shared how HRSA-supported programs and Cahaba Medical Care’s maternal health services improved their lives with accessible, patient-focused care. Federal Perspectives, HRSA leaders, including Dr. Michael Warren, stressed the value of federal support for maternal health, especially in rural and underserved communities. Local Innovation, Cahaba Medical Care showcased HRSA-funded projects, such as expanded prenatal care, mental health screenings, and collaborations with local hospitals like Bibb Medical Center and Ascension St. Vincent’s.
Dr. Michael Warren, HRSA Associate Administrator quotes, “This roundtable shows the power of collaboration. By blending federal resources with local expertise, we’re creating better health pathways for Alabama’s mothers and families”, with Dr. John B. Waits, CEO of Cahaba Medical Care, saying that “Cahaba Medical Care is honored to lead efforts in addressing maternal health disparities. This event highlights the need to listen to families and develop tailored solutions.” Tina Barnes adds that “Consistency is key to maintaining trust with these families.” Kearia Martin who is a Cahaba Medical Care patient said, “They treated me like family, showed love, and always checked on my mental health. I’d do it all over again just to have this experience.” Steven Garrett quoted that “Raising awareness of maternal health resources and partnering with connected communities like churches and to ensure that they know about available hotlines.”
When asked about barriers to maintaining practices in rural areas, Dr. Waits emphasized, “We need to strengthen our systems, so people feel supported and want to stay.”
HRSA and Cahaba Medical Care reaffirmed their dedication to providing high-quality maternal health services in rural areas. For innovative solutions the discussion highlighted scaling programs like Centering Pregnancy support groups and telehealth to overcome care barriers.
The event ended with a push for collaboration among community organizations, healthcare providers, and policymakers to promote maternal health equity in Alabama.
