The Development, Implementation, and Evaluation of a Racism and Health Disparity Prevention Course for Midwives

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Public Health
• Health Equity

Background:

• Maternal health disparities disproportionately affect Black, Indigenous, and marginalized women in the U.S.
• The U.S. has the highest maternal mortality rate among developed nations, with challenges in rural and underserved areas.
• Addressing systemic biases, particularly racial biases, is crucial for mitigating maternal health disparities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development, implementation, and evaluation of an antiracism and health disparity prevention course for midwifery students.
• To equip future healthcare providers with tools to combat systemic inequities in maternal care.
• To foster cultural competence and self-reflection on implicit biases.

Main Methods:

• A dedicated antiracism and health disparity prevention course was developed and integrated into the Doctor of Nursing Practice midwifery curriculum.
• A structured framework was used to address historical oppression, implicit biases, and culturally sensitive care.
• Student self-reflection and actionable strategies for addressing systemic inequities were encouraged.

Main Results:

• Midwifery students reported increased self-awareness regarding racism in healthcare.
• Students demonstrated a stronger commitment to addressing health disparities and systemic inequities.
• The course was perceived as a positive educational contribution despite challenges like credit load and emotional labor.

Conclusions:

• Integrating antiracism and health disparity courses is essential for healthcare education.
• Such courses foster more equitable and antiracist practices in maternal healthcare.
• The developed course framework shows promise for broader adoption across health disciplines.