(Little Rock, KATV) — The Maternal Outcomes Matter Showers, also known as the M.O.M.S., toured through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and came to Little Rock this weekend as part of their efforts to improve maternal health nationwide.
Their stop in Arkansas was used to help address maternal health disparities and explore solutions right here in the state.
“There are a lot of great groups here that are willing and able to help when it comes to anything during childbirth, post-partum or while you’re pregnant,” District 80, State Rep., Denise Ennett said.
Over 100 current and expectant mothers and fathers made their way to Philander Smith University for the tour to listen to panels, meet medical professionals, and more.
“What we are doing is, we are connecting our pregnant and post-partum women to the village that they didn’t even know existed for them here,” HHS Center for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships, Director, Dr. Que English said.
According to Dr. English, the U.S. has the highest maternal mortality rate out of any other developed nation, with Arkansas being among the top states facing this issue, making it a crucial stop in the tour.
“Bringing more awareness to this problem that we have. The Arkansas legislature, we have the Arkansas maternal mortality review committee that was enacted in 2019 to help address some of these inequities that we have here in Arkansas,” Ennett said.
The tour shared access to Medicaid, various healthcare service resources, maternal supplies, and education about parenting from the very start as well as childbirth assistance.
“We recognize that even with the doulas and midwives, we’ve seen improved outcomes when they are connected with these services. We have a long way to go here in Arkansas, but what we can do is one day at a time, one step at a time is bringing resources to these women so they can experience a safe birth,” English said.
M.O.M.S was adamant on supplying resources for mental health with over 52% of maternal mortality being post-partum.
“I always say that as long as there’s breath there’s hope. And so I want the people of Arkansas and Little Rock to keep hope alive. and this is just one piece of the puzzle in improving maternal health outcomes but be connected. Be connected to your community members, be connected to those that are offering services and keep hope alive,” English said.
For anyone who missed the event, there are resource packets available specific to help in Arkansas.
For more information click here.