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Michigan launches ‘SOS Maternity Network’ to address maternal and infant deaths

Last November, the March of Dimes awarded the state of Michigan a “D+” for its efforts to safeguard the health of pregnant women and babies.

That’s because maternal deaths have increased over the past five years. And our infant mortality rate is above the national average.

On Monday (Oct. 28), representatives from 14 healthcare organizations and universities across Michigan came together to try and change that.

“Today, we are announcing in Michigan that the leading health systems and universities are joining together for the first time to stop moms and babies from dying,” said the Director of Wayne State University Office of Women’s Health, Dr. Sonia Hassan.

It was a show of force at Second Ebenezer Church to launch the SOS Maternity Network.

“So what is SOS? If you are an SOS mom, you will be in a program in which you will receive, number one, the most advanced medical tests and treatment at any doctor’s office or hospital. Number two, you’ll have transportation to every single pregnancy visit so that every mom has access to this advanced care. Number three, you will have follow-up counseling, so when you leave the doctor’s office with your one-on-one patient navigator, which will make it personalized for you.”

Dr. Sonia Hassan

The program aims to dramatically reduce premature births and help treat or prevent dangerous conditions during pregnancy, like pre-eclampsia and high blood pressure.

“For every 1,000 live births in Michigan, more than six infants died before their first birthday, and the rate is much higher right here in the city of Detroit,” said Denise Fair Razo of the Detroit Health Department.

The hope is that the state healthcare providers can do better by joining together.

“Every mom, every baby in Michigan deserves reliable care, and we want mothers across the state to know that help is available,” Razo said.

The state has allocated $11 million to fund this state-wide network.

Click here to learn more if you are an expectant mom who could benefit from the program or know someone who is.

Click here to become a SOS Mom.


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