EPISODE SUMMARY
Why are maternal mortality rates in America, the wealthiest country in the world, the worst amongst economically advanced countries? And why, despite knowing the reasons mothers are dying in the process of giving life and what should be done to improve things, are things getting worse, especially for women of color?
EPISODE NOTES
Why are maternal mortality rates in America, the wealthiest country in the world, the worst amongst economically advanced countries? And why, despite knowing the reasons mothers are dying in the process of giving life and what should be done to improve things, are things getting worse, especially for women of color?
Season Two, Episode Nine of Mental Health Trailblazers takes a hard look at maternal health and mortality in America at a time when indicators for underrepresented communities, African American women in particular, are getting worse. MFP Alumna Dr. Agnes White provides context and offers solutions for what our host Indrias Kassaye suggests is one of great paradoxes of life in America today.
Born and raised in the Deep South, Dr. White shares her inspiring story of achievement against great odds, in a community challenged by health disparities and inequities. Her research interests include developing culturally tailored interventions to improve health outcomes for mothers by breaking down the distrust and disconnect that too often characterizes relationships between healthcare providers and patients, especially those experiencing substance use disorders. Simple and effective evidence-based interventions include training nurses to ask the right questions and refrain from using judgmental language.
Dr. Agnes White continues to research, educate, and inspire those who work in the nursing field on the best methods of care for patients of all backgrounds. You can learn more about her work and research at https://emfp.org/mfp-fellows/doctoral/agnes-white.