Cultural Competency - Racial Differences in Maternal Mortality-Racism and Unequal Medical Care

Course overview

Maternal mortality has become a notable part of human and social development. It is especially telling of women's overall status, access to health care, and the responsiveness of the health care system to their needs. Members of racial and ethnic minorities are less likely to receive preventive health services and often receive lower-quality care. This course will aid social workers in gaining a better understanding of how race and prejudice influences maternal health. In addition, this course will explore the causes of why women of color, particularly black mothers keep dying after giving birth and identifying some solution-based strategies in closing the gap in birth outcomes. Course Objectives Explore statistics regarding racial inequalities in maternal loss of life Examine possible reasons for racial inequalities in maternal death and acute despair Explore historical implications regarding maternal and infant health in the black community Review quality of care provided in hospitals that serve a large minority community Analyze case studies of patients who experienced racial inequality by the health system