News & Events

New Symposium Video Underscores the Need to Address Health Equity

On Friday, November 1, 2019, over 300 physicians, nurses, public health experts, and other medical professionals gathered for the 2^nd Annual Maternal Health & Perinatal Safety Symposium.  It was an incredible day featuring expert speakers in obstetrics, pediatrics, and public health sharing best practices and resources to prevent maternal mortality and ensure the safety of all mothers and infants.

We all know the devastating statistics – the maternal mortality rate has been on the rise since the 1990s and Black, non-Hispanic women, are at the highest risk for death.  This year’s symposium focused on health equity and the role that race plays in the level of care a patient may receive.  These topics may be difficult to address, but it is our duty as health care professionals to acknowledge racial inequity and advocate for systemic changes. Change begins with us. The presenters clearly presented the urgent need to address this health crisis and shared best practices outlining a clear road map for change.

I am pleased to share the video highlights from this thought-provoking day of discussion. The feedback from the Symposium was overwhelmingly positive and it is clear that the messages resonated loudly.  I want to thank the participants, planning committee, generous sponsors, speakers, and all those who made the conference a success.

Our important work continues.  We are planning the 2020 Symposium and will announce the details soon.

Andrew F. Rubenstein, MD, FACOG
Chair, Total Quality Improvement Committee, Partnership for Maternal and Child Health
Co-Chair, Maternal Health and Perinatal Safety Symposium