The death of a mother shaped my career

The death of a mother has an indelible impact on an OB-GYN. As a young resident, the death of one of my pregnant patients shaped the rest of my career. I became a maternal-fetal medicine specialist to care for women with high-risk pregnancies. I also volunteer as chair of Texas’ maternal mortality review committee, where I dedicate my time to investigating the reasons behind these deaths and finding solutions.

In Texas, our Modified Medical Re- search Council (MMRC) findings are the essential first step to implementing real solutions targeting causes of maternal morbidity and mortality. Through our last review, we found hemorrhage and hypertension to be leading causes of maternal mortality. We’re now taking action by implementing standardized protocols. These “safety bundles” ensure the entire care team knows how to identify and treat these issues.

Too often, MMRCs are underfunded and cannot properly serve their role. We need all states to have a robust MMRC, and we’re not there yet. A bill in Congress, the Preventing Maternal Deaths Act, will work to ensure MMRCs are standardized and well-funded.

We, as OB-GYNs, share the task of tackling this public health issue — that’s why addressing maternal mortality is my top priority. I’m committed to implementing solutions alongside providers, hospitals, community partners and elected officials. If we hope to make true progress, we cannot put a Band-Aid on the wound, we must heal it. Lisa Hollier, MD, president American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Washington, D.C.

Giving women good prenatal and postnatal care helps prevent problems that may cause death. But maternity has risks, and we need to accept that as a factor and be more devoted to better care, as a society. John Enk