St. Louis Department of Health recently organized a unique discussion on regional maternal child health in collaboration with National Medical Association leadership. The event, held at the Missouri Foundation for Health on March 21, brought together stakeholders from across the St. Louis region to address disparities that affect Black and brown mothers.
The panel discussion was moderated by Department of Health Director Dr. Mati Hlatshwayo Davis and featured prominent women in the field of maternal child health. Among the panelists were NMA president Dr. Yolanda Lawson, Generate Health Executive Director Kendra Copanas, doula and CEO of Jamaa Birth Village Okunsola Amadou, and Dr. Dineo Khabele of Washington University. Each panelist brought their unique perspective and expertise to the conversation, shedding light on the challenges facing maternal child health in the region and discussing potential solutions.
The event served as an important platform for raising awareness about the issues impacting maternal child health in St. Louis and fostering collaboration among various stakeholders. By bringing together leaders from different sectors, the Department of Health aimed to catalyze collective action to address disparities and improve outcomes for Black and brown mothers in the region. The panelists’ insights and experiences provided valuable insights that will inform future efforts to promote maternal child health and equity in St. Louis.
During the discussion, it was highlighted that disparities affecting Black and brown mothers are a significant issue that needs immediate attention. Panelists discussed how these disparities arise due to systemic racism, lack of access to healthcare services, poverty, discrimination against minority women in healthcare settings, among others.
Furthermore, they also highlighted initiatives undertaken by various entities such as private businesses to community organizations to address these disparities.
In conclusion, this unique discussion provided an opportunity for stakeholders across different sectors to come together
