Improving infant health equity: what have we learned, what do we do

Area of Science:

• Neonatal Health
• Health Equity Research
• Racial Disparities in Medicine

Background:

• Despite significant declines in US neonatal and infant mortality over six decades, persistent racial disparities in outcomes remain.
• Racial inequities are evident in risk-adjusted outcomes, including gestational age-specific and congenital anomaly-associated mortality.
• Differences in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) practices contribute to worse outcomes for infants of color.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize racial inequities in risk-adjusted NICU outcomes and associated inter- and intra-NICU practices.
• To provide an overview of current approaches to health equity in NICU care.
• To identify opportunities and strategies for more equitable care for NICU patients and their families.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on racial disparities in NICU outcomes.
• Analysis of inter- and intra-NICU practices affecting infants of color.
• Examination of current health equity strategies in neonatal care.

Main Results:

• Racial inequities exist in risk-adjusted NICU outcomes, disproportionately affecting infants of color.
• Specific inter- and intra-NICU practices are associated with poorer outcomes for minority infants.
• Current health equity approaches in NICU care are reviewed, identifying areas for improvement.

Conclusions:

• Addressing racial inequities in NICU practices is crucial for improving outcomes for infants of color.
• Implementing targeted improvement strategies can reduce disparities in neonatal care.
• Sustainable strategies and accountability are needed for equitable NICU care and family support.