Ohio’s Community Health Centers Poised to Reduce Infant Mortality

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Sept. 26, 2014 - PRLog -- September 26, 2014 (COLUMBUS) – Ohio’s Community Health Centers are uniquely poised to make a positive impact on the alarming rates of infant mortality. According to the recent report from the CDC, Ohio's infant mortality rate was the fifth worst in the country in 2011, and the worst state for African American infant deaths. The report shows that 1,087 Ohio infants died in 2011, approximately eight children per every 1,000 live births.

Infant mortality has reached a crisis level in Ohio. The Ohio Association of Community Health Center Board of Directors immediately and unanimously voted to designate prenatal infant mortality a priority.

“As we come to the close of Infant Mortality Awareness Month this September, we must continue on and seize this opportunity to educate ourselves, colleagues and patients alike about the infant mortality crisis in our state,” says OACHC Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Ted Wymyslo, “Ohio’s Community Health Centers can and will assist in the effort to reduce infant mortality.”

Senators Shannon Jones and Charleta Tavares have introduced a package of legislation to address the infant mortality in Ohio – Senate Bill 279 being one. SB 279 will decrease disparities and improve birth outcomes using the Centering Pregnancy model.

Centering Pregnancy is a multifaceted model of group care that integrates the three major components of care – health assessment, education and support – into a unified program within a group setting. Eight to twelve women with similar gestational ages meet together, learn care skills, participate in facilitated discussions and develop a support network with other group members.

Through this unique model of care, women are empowered to choose health-promoting behaviors. Health outcomes for pregnancies, specifically increased birth weight and gestational age, and the satisfaction expressed by both the women and their providers, support the effectiveness of this model for the delivery of care.

With a proven record of delivering high-quality, low-cost health care, coupled with a strong presence in vulnerable/highest need communities – including impoverished urban neighborhoods, small towns and rural counties where poverty and unemployment are historically high – Ohio’s Community Health Centers are poised and ready to use the Centering Pregnancy data-driven model with significant success.

“Ohio can and will reduce infant mortality,” says COO Julie DiRossi-King, “And Ohio’s Community Health Centers are ready to lead the way.  Senators Jones and Tavares’ legislation (SB 279) is a shining example of how Ohio’s leadership can come together to spearhead a strong initiative for healthy Ohio families.  We look forward to working with the General Assembly and the Kasich Administration to enact this legislation by year’s end.  Together we will reach more first Ohio birthdays!”