Equity
Health Disparity Study
Summary: We are currently working on a two part project that will look at the root causes of the differences in outcomes experienced in the Black community in Frederick as it relates to maternal child health. The first part was a health disparity study to develop a profile on the Black woman in Frederick county. This time will be spent understanding the story and lives behind the numbers, working to look into more than just the healthcare experience (although that is important), and include other social determinants of health. The Frederick County Black Maternal Health Disparity Study Report is available for review. A graphic representation of the drivers that prohibit positive Black maternal health outcomes was also developed as part of this study as a tool to guide conversations.
Members of the Community Advisory Board (CAB) and Black Mamas Building Bridges.
Current stage: The second phase is using the information from the profile to identify and develop solutions based on the findings of the health disparity study and community input. This phase, like the first one, is guided and led by a Community Advisory Board (CAB). It incorporates the language, experiences, and ideas of those who are experiencing the current conditions and will most benefit from improvements.
A SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) analysis was developed and feedback from the workgroup was compiled. A value vs effort matrix was introduced to guide discussion and determine which strategies identified in the SWOT analysis to begin with.
The group identified these high value opportunities for improvement:
What's coming next: the group is finalizing the strategic plan and will present it to the community before the end of 2023.