Children’s Hospital, Pa. Dept. of Health host news conference on maternal health

HERSHEY, Pa. — Representatives from Penn State Health and Penn State College of Medicine showcased their involvement in advancing maternal and infant care through local maternal health coalitions during a news conference held on Jan. 27 in Hershey.

“Our coalition is committed to being a driving force for positive change in maternal health,” said Kristin Sznajder, assistant professor of public health sciences at Penn State College of Medicine, who leads one of the four coalitions. “By connecting academic research, clinical care and community-based solutions, we are creating a model for improving maternal health equity here in Central Pennsylvania.”

The coalitions are focused on gathering and analyzing regional data to identify factors contributing to maternal mortality and morbidity. Their ultimate goal is to enhance healthcare services for mothers and babies within their respective communities.

"One of the best ways to improve the health of mothers and babies is to lean into local organizations who know their community and are doing the 'boots on the ground' work every day," said Health Secretary Dr. Debra Bogen. "Providing financial resources to these maternal health coalitions supports their work to develop locally responsive and effective strategies to help Pennsylvania's mothers, babies and families thrive."

Learn more and view additional photos from the event here.