Washington Health’s Maternal Child Advisory Council

People of different cultures have various birth traditions, such as the Islamic spiritual practice of reciting the Adhan prayer into a newborn’s ear. Culturally centered care means recognizing differences in family dynamics, religious beliefs, and preferences that makes the birthing experience safer and more respectful, while ensuring better satisfaction and outcomes.

We sat down with Washington Health’s Director of Maternal Child Health Nneka Chukwu, DNP-HCL, MSN, MBA, RN, CLNC, to discuss the health system’s new Maternal Child Advisory Council, which aims to ensure conditions of optimal births for all people. Chukwu has 25 years experience in health care and is an adjunct faculty member of the USF Graduate Nursing Program. She is also a published author, podcaster, international motivational speaker, and seasoned leader.

What does birth equity mean?

Birth equity is the assurance of respectful and safe pregnancy and childbirth conditions for everyone, dismantling systemic racism, implicit biases, and social inequalities that lead to disparities in maternal and infant mortality. Birth equity ensures all people, regardless of culture or background, have the resources and quality care necessary for optimal birth outcomes. The U.S. has the highest maternal mortality rate among developed nations, with Black women dying at a rate three to four times higher than white women, regardless of income or education. In the Bay Area, Black babies are three to four times more likely to be born too early, too small, or not at all, according to DeliverBirthJustice.org. We want to take action to stop preventable deaths, as well as provide culturally responsive care that respects diverse traditions. Transgender people have delivered babies in our birthing center, so we refer to our patients as birthing people instead of mothers.

What is Washington Health’s Maternal Child Advisory Council and why was it formed?

The Maternal Child Advisory Council is designed to foster meaningful partnerships among patients, families, and health care teams to promote safe, equitable, inclusive, and compassionate care. The council will help ensure that our care reflects the diverse needs, priorities, and lived experiences of every birthing person, child, and family we serve. There is significant inequity in health care today and our goal with this advisory council is to bridge those gaps. I had this dream of bringing patients to the table to have conversations about how we can improve their experience and design care that is culturally appropriate.

Who makes up the Advisory Council?

Our goal is to ensure council members represent the diverse community we serve. The Advisory Council is made up of health system employees as well as our patients. Meeting monthly, council members work closely together with the understanding that they represent not only themselves, but they are the voice of their community. For example, a council member of Hispanic background will represent other Hispanic birthing people, and an Asian Indian member will help us understand what people from their culture expect during pregnancy and childbirth. They share ideas and recommendations, and partner with us to help design services that better meet the unique needs of our community.

Why is birth equity so important to you?

“Nneka” is a feminine given name of Igbo origin from Nigeria, meaning “mother is supreme.” It signifies deep respect for motherhood, nurturing, and the vital role of women in our culture. On a personal note, I experienced complications during pregnancy and at birth with my second daughter. I expressed my concerns, but they were dismissed. She is severely disabled and will never be able to call me “Mom” or have the chance for an education. I cannot change the past, but I have the opportunity to help change that narrative for others. We cannot continue to lose our daughters, sisters and mothers and let our babies be harmed. Sixty percent of birth-related deaths and bad outcomes are preventable. So, let’s take action.
 

What is your message and call to action for the community?

When Washington Health says, “Our Reason is You,” we mean it. We are more than just a hospital; we are part of this community. Many of our team members were born here and some have even welcomed their own babies here. We want our community to feel a true sense of connection and belonging with us. Our goal is to continue developing innovative programs and delivering high-quality care that reflects the needs and experiences of the people we serve. We know that we can only achieve this through partnership with community members, feedback, and engagement. We invite former patients to join us and become part of this important movement. Together we can help shape the future of care in our community.

If you are interested in being a part of Washington Health’s Maternal Child Advisory Council, email Nneka_Chukwu@WashingtonHealth.com. For more information about Washington Health’s Childbirth and Family Services, go to WashingtonHealth.com/Childbirth.