Pennsylvania Invests in Maternal Health: Healthcare Officials Tour Scranton Clinic, Seek Public Input
Scranton, PA – Healthcare leaders descended upon Scranton Primary Health Care Center this week, seeking to gather information that will shape Pennsylvania’s future of maternal healthcare.
Led by Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh, the visit aims to inform the development of a comprehensive Maternal Health Strategic Plan.
"Becoming a parent should be a time of joy, not fear," said Dr. Arkoosh.
“Sadly, across our nation and here in Pennsylvania, too many women face life-threatening complications during pregnancy and postpartum. We must do better. We must address these disparities and ensure all women have access to high-quality, equitable care.”
The center’s visit coincided with the launch of a statewide survey seeking the stories and experiences of Pennsylvania women regarding their prenatal and postpartum care.
"The voices of women are essential," Dr. Arkoosh emphasized. "Their stories will guide us in crafting a plan to improve maternal health outcomes and potentially save lives."
This push for change comes on the heels of significant investment in maternal mortality prevention. Since taking office, Governor Josh Shapiro has secured nearly $5 million in the state budget dedicated to this critical issue.
"Governor Shapiro has prioritized addressing these disparities from day one," highlighted Secretary Arkoosh.
Dr. Debra Bogen, Pennsylvania’s Secretary of Health, echoed the urgency of the issue.
"We know that Black women in Pennsylvania face tragically higher rates of pregnancy-related complications and death compared to their white counterparts," said Dr. Bogen.
"The Shapiro Administration is committed to closing this gap and ensuring all women have access to the high-quality care they deserve. This begins with expanding access to comprehensive care like what is offered here at Scranton Primary."
Earlier this year, the government expanded access to doula services for Medicaid recipients, recognizing the crucial role doulas play in supporting healthy pregnancies and births.
The Scranton Primary Health Care Center, a Federally Qualified Health Center serving the community since 1978, provides a model for holistic care, offering a broad range of services, including perinatal care, pediatrics, and behavioral health support.
“We’re deeply grateful for the Governor’s and his administration’s focus on maternal health," said Scranton Primary CEO Joe Hollander. "This forum allows us to share our experience and contribute to building a brighter future for mothers and families across Pennsylvania.”
The Maternal Health Strategic Plan, incorporating the valuable input from women across the state, will focus on enhancing access to quality care, diversifying the maternal health workforce, and addressing critical issues like behavioral health and substance use disorder.
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The PID is currently exploring ways to expand coverage for essential women’s health services like doula care, surrogacy benefits, and human breast milk storage.
The Maternal Health Strategic Plan survey, available in both English and Spanish, is open until November 29, 2024. Pennsylvanians are encouraged to participate and share their experiences to help shape the future of maternal health care in their state. Inspired by Scranton’s success, Pennsylvania hopes to lead the way towards a future where every mother has access to the care they need.
## Investing in Mothers: A Conversation with Dr. Val Arkoosh on PennsylvaniaS Maternal Health Plan
**World-Today News**: Dr. Arkoosh, thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. The visit to the Scranton Primary Health Care Center marked another step in Pennsylvania’s enterprising effort to improve maternal health outcomes. can you tell our readers more about the Maternal Health Strategic Plan and its goals?
**Dr. Val Arkoosh**: Absolutely. Pennsylvania is facing a maternal health crisis,and we are taking comprehensive action to address it. this strategic plan is built on the foundation that every birthing person in Pennsylvania deserves access to quality, respectful, and culturally competent care. Our primary goals are to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity rates, eliminate racial disparities in maternal health outcomes, and ensure every family has the support they need to thrive.
**world-Today News**: the Scranton visit focused on gathering input from healthcare providers and community members. Why is this grassroots approach crucial to the Plan’s success?
**Dr. Arkoosh**: Listening to those on the front lines is essential. healthcare providers in Scranton, like those serving communities across the state, face unique challenges and possess invaluable insights into the needs of their patients. Similarly, lived experiences shared by mothers and families directly inform our understanding of the systemic barriers they encounter. This direct feedback will help ensure the Plan is truly responsive to the needs of Pennsylvanians.
**World-Today News**: What are some of the key challenges Pennsylvania faces in improving maternal health, and how will the Plan address them?
**Dr.Arkoosh**: We’re confronted with a complex web of issues, including lack of access to quality care, notably in rural areas, persistent racial disparities, and a shortage of healthcare professionals specializing in maternal care. The Plan will tackle these challenges through a multi-pronged approach, including:
* **Expanding access:** Increasing Medicaid coverage for pregnant people, bolstering community health centers, and supporting innovative telehealth initiatives to reach those in underserved areas.
* **Addressing disparities:** Implementing culturally competent training for healthcare providers, promoting doula care, and funding programs that address social determinants of health, such as housing insecurity and food deserts.
* **strengthening the workforce:** Investing in scholarships and loan forgiveness programs for maternal health professionals,creating mentorship opportunities,and supporting midwives and other birthing professionals.
**World-today News**: The statement “Becoming a parent should be a time of joy, not fear” resonates powerfully. How will the Plan ensure a more supportive and positive experience for expectant and new parents?
**Dr. Arkoosh**: That sentiment drives our vision. We want to create a support system that empowers families throughout their journeys. this includes initiatives like expanding access to postpartum mental health services, promoting breastfeeding support, and creating welcoming environments in birthing facilities that prioritize the emotional well-being of parents.
**World-Today News**: What message would you like to send to Pennsylvanians who are concerned about maternal health in our state?
**Dr. Arkoosh**: We hear you, and we are committed to action. this Plan represents a collective effort to create a healthier, more equitable future for all Pennsylvania families.We encourage everyone to get involved,share their views,and help us build a Pennsylvania where every birthing person can experience the joy and confidence of parenthood.
