The Hawaiʻi Department of Health's Maternal and Child Health Branch has been awarded a $1.475 million federal grant to address maternal mortality in the state. The funding, which amounts to $295,000 annually over five years, will support the work of the department and the Hawaiʻi Maternal Mortality Review Committee (HMMRC). This committee is tasked with identifying and reviewing pregnancy-related deaths to find prevention opportunities.
National findings suggest that more than 80% of pregnancy-related deaths can be prevented. In Hawaiʻi, about 10 to 12 women die each year due to pregnancy or related complications. Sunny Chen, executive director of Hawaiʻi Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies and HMMRC member, emphasized the importance of the committee: “The HMMRC is essential to safeguarding the health and well-being of pregnant individuals, mothers and babies across our islands.”
Established by the state Legislature in 2016, HMMRC aims to identify root causes of pregnancy-associated deaths. It focuses on social determinants such as access disparities, needs specific to Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander populations, substance use disorders, mental health issues, and adverse childhood events.
Efforts are particularly concentrated within NHPI communities. Initiatives include supporting perinatal behavioral health services and providing mobile clinics for underinsured individuals. Social media campaigns are also part of these efforts to raise awareness about pregnancy-related complications.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention funds similar committees in 46 states along with six U.S. territories.
For further information on MCHB or referrals to healthcare providers, visit their website or check out their Maternal Warning Signs & Symptoms page.