The Hawaii State Department of Health (DOH) has been awarded a substantial federal grant aimed at reducing maternal mortality rates and addressing health disparities among pregnant and postpartum individuals. The $1.475 million grant, provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Resources and Services Administration, will fund a five-year initiative to enhance maternal health services across the state.
This grant is part of the State Maternal Health Innovation Program, a nationwide effort to improve maternal health outcomes and eliminate disparities. Hawaii’s initiative will focus on implementing evidence-based practices and innovative approaches to maternal healthcare.
The DOH plans to use the funds to strengthen its Maternal Mortality Review Committee, which plays a crucial role in identifying and addressing factors contributing to maternal deaths. The grant will also support the expansion of telehealth services, particularly benefiting those in rural and underserved areas who face challenges accessing quality maternal care.
A key component of the initiative is the implementation of implicit bias training for healthcare providers. This training aims to address unconscious biases that may contribute to disparities in maternal health outcomes among different racial and ethnic groups.
The program will collaborate with various stakeholders, including healthcare providers, community organizations, and academic institutions, to develop comprehensive strategies for improving maternal health across Hawaii.
By focusing on evidence-based practices, expanding access to care, and addressing systemic biases, the DOH aims to significantly reduce maternal mortality rates and improve overall maternal health outcomes for all residents of Hawaii, regardless of their geographic location or socioeconomic status.
See “DOH Receives $1.475 Million Federal Grant To Help Reduce Maternal Mortality” (October 10, 2024)