Leadership of the University of Minnesota Rural Health Research Center Maternity Care Team provided a timely update on critical issues impacting maternal health in rural U.S. communities. The presentation described disparities in maternal health outcomes for rural populations, the growing scarcity of obstetric care, and the far-reaching consequences of obstetric unit closures. Additionally, the presentation delved into the reasons behind these closures and examined policy solutions aimed at improving access to maternal health care and advancing health equity.
Presenters:
Katy B. Kozhimannil, PhD, MPA, is a Distinguished McKnight Professor, University of Minnesota School of Public Health, and Co-Director of the University’s Rural Health Research Center. Her research contributes evidence for clinical and policy strategies advancing racial, gender, and geographic equity.
Julia D. Interrante, PhD, MPH, is a research fellow and statistical lead at the University of Minnesota Rural Health Research Center. Her work examines the impact of health policy on reproductive and maternal health care access and health outcomes.
The webinar can be accessed here.
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