California Governor Newsom Proclaims Strong Start & Beyond Day to Launch Maternal Health Initiative

The Strong Start & Beyond initiative builds on prior state efforts, including the Momnibus Act, Medi-Cal coverage expansion for postpartum.Photo byfreestocksonUnsplash

SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today declared September 17, 2024, as "Strong Start & Beyond Day," coinciding with the launch of a new statewide effort aimed at improving reproductive and maternal health. This initiative is a collaboration between community, public, and private partners to address maternal health disparities and reduce California's maternal mortality rate.

Joined by First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, California Surgeon General Dr. Diana E. Ramos, and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, the Governor unveiled the California Maternal Health Blueprint. This framework is designed to guide education, outreach, and policy strategies with a goal of reducing maternal mortality in the state by 50%.

"California has made significant strides, but we must do more to prevent the unnecessary loss of life," said Governor Newsom. "With more than 80% of maternal deaths being preventable, we are committed to improving maternal health outcomes across the state, especially for communities of color."

California, despite having the lowest maternal mortality rate in the U.S., continues to face challenges, particularly for Black women, who are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes. Hispanic and Asian American and Pacific Islander communities are also experiencing rising maternal mortality rates.

The Strong Start & Beyond initiative builds on prior state efforts, including the Momnibus Act, Medi-Cal coverage expansion for postpartum care, and implicit bias training for healthcare providers. The initiative's blueprint will serve as a guide for future actions, with a focus on empowering individuals and improving healthcare access.

The state is set to work alongside its partners to ensure healthier outcomes for mothers and newborns, ultimately strengthening communities across California.