Initiatives aimed at decreasing hypertension and hemorrhage among Black obstetric patients led to improved outcomes at hospitals offering safety net care.

MedStar Washington Hospital Center was recognized as a leader in efforts to reduce hypertension and hemorrhage in Black obstetric patients—including those to enhance equity and mitigate the effects of structural racism by America’s Essential Hospitals. The Institute, a division of America’s Essential Hospitals, partnered with the CVS Health Foundation to lead a two-year collaborative effort involving 12 essential hospitals aimed at decreasing morbidity and mortality rates among Black pregnant and birthing patients, with a focus on sharing results and best practices among participating hospitals, including  MedStar Washington Hospital Center.

Hospitals used various successful strategies, including racially concordant group prenatal care, expanded training for obstetric providers, and enhanced support services, to improve Black obstetric outcomes.