Collaborative Efforts
Maternal Health Roundtable
On February 29th 2024, the Office of the Secretary of Health and Human Resources gathered representatives from across Virginia, including legislators, state agencies, and medical community members to discuss strategies for improving Maternal Health. The Governor delivered opening remarks and challenged attendees to establish measurable next steps that address struggling maternal health numbers in the Commonwealth. Presenters spoke to the landscape of maternal health in Virginia, Medicaid Maternity and Postpartum Care, Private Sector Care, and a community perspective reflecting best practices.
The Honorable Kay Coles James, former Secretary of the Commonwealth, led a rich open mic discussion with attendees to gather information as to what is needed to improve Virginia’s maternal health. Lieutenant Governor Winsome Sears, First Lady of Virginia, Suzanne Youngkin, State Health Commissioner Karen Shelton and approximately 75 community members participated in the roundtable. The Governor and Secretary Littel will continue the work to bring every initiative to the table in a collaborative effort to combat the maternal mortality rate, increase access to care, and promote engagement across diverse ethnic and socio-economic lines.
- Dr. Karen Shelton, the State Health Commissioner, with the Virginia Department of Health, presented a look at Virginia’s Maternal Health Landscape through a data-driven lens. Attendee’s reviewed data on maternal mortality, maternal outcomes, patient engagement, linkage to care and access to care.
- Cheryl Roberts, Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) Agency Director, presented information on Medicaid Maternity and Postpartum Coverage and Services in Virginia. The presentation included a Medicaid maternal overview, maternal health levers, and current DMAS initiatives.
- Seema Sarin, MD, FACLM, presented information on Maternal Health: A Whole Health Approach. The presentation included an overview of a whole health focus, the state of maternal health, commercial industry objectives, a focus to drive better outcomes, and recommendations.
- Stephanie Spencer, Executive Director of Urban Baby Beginnings, presented a Community Provider Perspectives, Reflecting Best Practices.