HONOLULU — The Department of Health announced in a news release that its Maternal and Child Health Branch received a $1.475 million federal grant to help prevent maternal mortality. 

What You Need To Know

  • DOH will receive $295,000 a year for the next five years

  • The funds will help expand the work of the Hawaii Maternal Mortality Review Committee, which reviews maternal deaths every year

  • In Hawaii, about 10 to 12 women die each year because of pregnancy or pregnancy-related complications — and more than half of those deaths were preventable, according to the HMMRC

DOH will receive $295,000 a year for the next five years. The funds will help expand the work of the Hawaii Maternal Mortality Review Committee, which annually reviews maternal deaths.

Across the U.S., maternal mortality rates in the U.S. are higher than in many other developed countries. In Hawaii, about 10 to 12 women die each year because of pregnancy or pregnancy-related complications. The committee deemed more than half of those deaths preventable. 

“The HMMRC is essential to safeguarding the health and well-being of pregnant individuals, mothers and babies across our islands,” said Sunny Chen, executive director of Hawaii Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies and HMMRC member. 

Chen also highlighted Hawaii’s unique challenges: geographic isolation, the cultural and historical effects of colonialism, and health equity issues.

“By thoroughly examining every maternal death, the team uncovers critical insights that can prevent future tragedies and improve care for all families in Hawaii,” said Chen. 

In 2016, the Hawaii State Legislature established the HMMRC, with the goal of identifying the root causes of pregnancy-associated deaths and key moments when intervention may have prevented these deaths. 

The committee looks at disparities in access to care, the specific needs of Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander populations, and complications and morbidity in pregnancy that stem from substance use disorder, mental health and adverse childhood events. 

DOH said focusing efforts within NHPI communities can significantly improve perinatal care in Hawaii and reduce maternal mortality. 

These efforts include: 

  • Supporting perinatal behavioral health to prevent maternal deaths related to perinatal mood, anxiety disorders and substance use disorders
  • Supporting an agency to provide a mobile clinic for perinatal assistance for those who are underinsured and uninsured
  • Implementing social media campaigns to support maternal health by increasing awareness of pregnancy-related complications and by encouraging people to speak up and raise concerns

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention funds MMRCs in 46 states and six territories and freely associated states. 

For more information, visit the Department of Health’s MCHB website.

Michelle Broder Van Dyke covers the Hawaiian Islands for Spectrum News Hawaii. Email her at michelle.brodervandyke@charter.com.