HRSA, Cahaba Medical Care host roundtable on improving rural maternal health

Leaders from the Health Resources and Services Administration joined Cahaba Medical Care for a roundtable discussion on Nov. 21 focused on enhancing maternal health in rural Alabama in Centreville.

Held on National Rural Health Day, the event brought together federal and local leaders, healthcare providers, community organizations, and families to address Alabama’s maternal health crisis and highlight solutions to improve health outcomes for mothers and babies. The discussion, part of HRSA’s Enhancing Maternal Health Initiative tour, underscored the critical role of rural healthcare providers like Cahaba Medical Care in combating the state’s high maternal mortality rates and advancing maternal health equity. 

Alabama families shared their experiences with HRSA-supported programs and Cahaba Medical Care’s maternal health services, highlighting the transformative impact of accessible, patient-centered care.

HRSA leaders, including Michael Warren, MD, Associate Administrator for the Maternal and Child Health Bureau, emphasized the importance of federal investments in maternal health, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

“This roundtable is a testament to the power of collaboration," said Warren said. "By combining federal resources with local expertise, we are creating pathways to better health for mothers and families in Alabama."

Cahaba Medical Care shared insights into its HRSA-funded initiatives, including expanded prenatal care, perinatal behavioral health screenings, and partnerships with local hospitals like Bibb Medical Center and Ascension St. Vincent’s. 

Discussions focused on scaling innovative programs, such as Centering Pregnancy support groups and telehealth services, to reduce barriers to care. 

The full recording of the live stream is accessible at www.cahabamedicalcare.com/live.