Data-Driven Collaboration Between Public Health Leaders and Clinicians Can Support Moms and Babies

Over the course of my career in maternal and child health, I have worked with and on behalf of women, children and families across the health care continuum. As a clinician, a state and federal public health leader for over 15 years, and now Chief Medical and Health Officer with March of Dimes

, these roles have shown me the importance of coordinated and sustained action between public health, providers and families.

The need for this critical action is reflected in the findings of the 2026 Health of Women and Children Report. Its examination of long-term trends shows meaningful gains in infant health: reductions in infant mortality over the long term, while the low birth weight rate is beginning to improve after years of worsening. These represent real progress in our efforts to give every baby a healthy start. However, this progress is uneven: The data reveal concerning trends over the decade for pregnant women, including long-term increases in severe maternal morbidity and maternal mortality.

These findings reinforce the reality that we at March of Dimes know all too well: Too many women continue to face gaps in access

to the care that they need. Although some socioeconomic factors have improved, other findings like rising rates of chronic conditions and mental health challenges among women jeopardize the future health of women, their babies and their communities.

The data reinforce what my career has taught me: that clinicians cannot shoulder all of these outcomes alone.

Clinical providers, public health professionals, community-based workers and other trusted partners can help identify risks early, and support women and infants with the care and resources they need. It takes all of us working together as a country to improve outcomes.