Join the Urban Institute for a virtual discussion of our recent work on addressing maternal health inequity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the event, Urban Institute researchers will summarize findings from four new papers based on interviews with maternal health program and policy experts, prenatal care providers, advocates, and funders, as well as our scan of the research literature, policies, and initiatives at the community, state, and national levels. Panelists representing various community provider perspectives—from midwifery and care coordination to maternal support services and public health—will then discuss how the pandemic may be exacerbating racial and ethnic disparities in maternal mortality and morbidity; describe how providers, health systems, and communities are adapting care delivery in these challenging times; and identify emerging innovations that could promote maternal health equity during and beyond the pandemic. During facilitated discussion, attendees can ask panelists questions, brainstorm potential solutions, and share their experiences caring, making policies, and administering programs for pregnant and postpartum people during the pandemic.

Speakers

• Oxiris Barbot, Senior Fellow for Public Health and Social Justice, JPB Foundation; former Commissioner of Health, New York City
• Ian Hill, Senior Fellow, Health Policy Center, Urban Institute
• Diana Jolles, Midwife, El Rio Community Health Center; Research Chair, American Association of Birth Centers
• Genevieve M. Kenney, Senior Fellow and Vice President for Health Policy, Urban Institute
• Kimberly A.  Lyles, Senior Director, Population Health, HealthCare Access Maryland
• Aza Nedhari, Executive Director, Mamatoto Village
• Mona N. Shah, Senior Program Officer, Research-Evaluation-Learning Unit, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
• Kimá Joy Taylor, Nonresident Fellow, Health Policy Center, Urban Institute

Materials

• Maternal Telehealth Has Expanded Dramatically During the COVID-19 Pandemic
• Maternity Care Financing: Challenges and Opportunities Highlighted by the COVID-19 Pandemic
• Three Ways COVID-19 is Further Jeopardizing Black Maternal Health
• Presentation slides
• Speaker biographies

Support for this project is provided by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. For more information on the Urban Institute’s funding principles, go to www.urban.org/fundingprinciples.

We strive to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to engage fully. Please email [email protected] if you require any accommodations or have any questions about this event.