Last week, leaders from across Arkansas’s healthcare community gathered for the Arkansas Maternal Health Roundtable, a vital step toward improving outcomes for women and babies statewide. The event was designed to align, connect, and empower clinical and administrative leaders working every day to advance maternal health. It created a space for honest conversations, shared learning, and collective problem-solving, all fueled by a deep commitment to Arkansas families.
Opening Remarks
The roundtable featured opening remarks from Dr. Nirvana Manning, director of the Arkansas Center for Women & Infants’ Health, and Senator John Boozman, whose support has been instrumental in the Center’s formation and ongoing work.
Watch Dr. Manning's Full Remarks Watch Senator Boozman's Full Remarks
“Arkansas has one of the highest maternal and infant mortality rates in our nation. We’re here to change that.” —Dr. Nirvana Manning
At the Arkansas Center for Women & Infants’ Health, we do not take lightly the reality that Arkansas continues to face some of the highest maternal and infant mortality rates in the country. Our center was founded on this urgent need, and we are determined to be part of the solution.
“Hospital collaboration is essential.” —Dr. Nirvana Manning
Bringing together birthing hospitals, clinicians, public health officials, and policymakers created a powerful space for honest dialogue about challenges and solutions. It’s where expertise meets experience, all for the benefit of Arkansans statewide.
“Getting this right is the key to helping improve the lives of Arkansas families for years to come.” —Senator John Boozman
Senator Boozman’s remarks reminded us that maternal health is more than a healthcare issue, it’s a community and family issue that demands sustained commitment across all sectors. He praised Dr. Manning’s leadership as a “tireless champion and trusted voice for women’s health” and expressed confidence that together, we can solve this issue.
“Because the state is so rural, there are important benefits in working together to leverage expertise, experience, and networks that bring out real results for patients.” —Senator John Boozman
Given Arkansas’s largely rural landscape, the roundtable highlighted how essential it is to leverage shared resources and networks to reach every patient, especially those in underserved communities.
Key Discussions
The roundtable brought together healthcare providers, policymakers, advocates, and community leaders to address Arkansas’s maternal health challenges. Speakers highlighted recent legislative progress, including new policies to support moms and families. Innovations like integrating doulas and midwives into care and using the Pregnancy+ app were discussed as ways to improve support during pregnancy. Updates on Medicaid and reimbursement policies emphasized improving access to care. Hospital leaders stressed the importance of working together across facilities to strengthen maternal health services statewide.
Moving Forward
The roundtable concluded with a call to action, emphasizing the need for continued collaboration among healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations to improve maternal health outcomes in Arkansas. Dr. Manning reiterated the commitment of the Arkansas Center for Women & Infants’ Health to lead efforts in transforming maternal care across the state.
Together, we can build a future where every mother in Arkansas receives the care she needs, every baby has a healthy start, and families thrive. We are deeply hopeful and committed to this work, and we thank you for walking this path with us.
We invite healthcare providers, community organizations, policymakers, and families to join us on this journey. Here are the ways to get involved:
- Partner with Us: If you represent a hospital, clinic, or community group, reach out to explore opportunities for collaboration, training, and resource sharing.
- Stay Informed: Follow our updates on Facebook or through our newsletter on maternal health programs, research, and new statewide initiatives.
