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Doula Program Sees Success in Reducing Maternal Deaths in New York City

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

New York City's doula program, launched by Mayor Eric Adams three years ago, has seen significant success in reducing maternal deaths, especially among Black and brown mothers. The program provides free access to doulas for expecting mothers in underserved neighborhoods, with over 3,200 mothers benefiting so far. Despite the progress, the city still grapples with alarming rates of maternal mortality, with Black women being nine times more likely to die of pregnancy-related causes than white women in New York City. Mayor Adams has signed seven new bills to further address maternal health disparities, including bills to prevent workplace discrimination, improve access to education and programs, and increase doula training and access to midwives.

Key Takeaways:

  • The New York City doula program has helped over 3,200 mothers, providing free access to doulas in underserved neighborhoods.
  • The program was launched by Mayor Eric Adams three years ago, with the goal of reducing maternal deaths, particularly among Black and brown mothers.
  • Despite progress, maternal mortality rates remain high, with Black women being nine times more likely to die of pregnancy-related causes than white women in New York City.
  • Mayor Adams has signed seven new bills aimed at addressing maternal health disparities, including bills to prevent workplace discrimination, improve access to education and programs, and increase doula training and access to midwives.
  • The bills will help provide better care to mothers in communities that have been ignored for too long.
  • Mayor Adams has stated that the program is not yet a success, but rather an opportunity to expand and improve care for mothers.

Statistics:

  • Over 3,200 mothers have benefited from the New York City doula program so far.
  • Black women are nine times more likely to die of pregnancy-related causes than white women in New York City.
  • Mayor Adams has signed seven bills aimed at addressing maternal health disparities.

Sources:

  • Kori Chambers, Mayor Adams touting the success of the city's doula program
  • Shirley Chan, initiative protects mothers of color and their babies during childbirth
  • Nicole Johnson, PIX11, on the maternal mortality rate among Black and brown mothers
  • Mayor Eric Adams, on the importance of the doula program and its impact on maternal deaths

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