As we commemorate Black History Month, we honor the significant contributions of Black Americans to our nation’s history and culture. This observance is also an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment as health care leaders to addressing persistent health disparities affecting communities of color, particularly with maternal and infant health in our region.
While California outperforms the nation on maternal health outcomes, Black mothers remain particularly at risk, delivering just 5% of all babies, yet accounting for 21% of maternal deaths. Data show that Black infants in San Diego County are nearly three times more likely to die than white infants, and they are almost 60% more likely to be born prematurely.
These alarming statistics underscore the continued need for collaborative action that promotes health equity. Hospitals alone cannot bridge these gaps; it requires a concerted effort with community organizations, policymakers, and health care providers.
In our region, hospitals are actively partnering with organizations such as Black Legacy Now, dedicated to improving birth and maternal health outcomes for African American families. Through these collaborations, we strive to provide culturally competent care that respects and understands the unique experiences of Black mothers. Initiatives include implementing implicit bias training for health care providers, expanding access to midwifery and doula services, and developing support networks that extend beyond childbirth.
Beyond maternal care, our hospitals are committed to addressing broader health disparities. We partner with the UC San Diego Cancer Health Equity Collaborative to improve access to cancer prevention, early detection, and survivorship support for underserved communities in San Diego and Imperial counties. Additionally, hospitals support initiatives like the San Diego State University Health Center, which recently secured a $22 million National Institutes of Health award to address health disparities in our region.
These are just a few examples that highlight the reality that equity is a shared responsibility. This month, as we reflect on the past, it’s crucial that we rededicate ourselves to building a foundation for the future by fostering strong partnerships and implementing targeted initiatives to create a health care system that serves everyone in our region with dignity and respect.