The MDHHS and the Maternal Infant Strategy group are partnering in a Mother Infant Health and Equity Plan. The improvement plan includes comprehensive statewide strategies that will align stakeholders around key goals to improve the health of mothers and babies. The plan was developed through public comment, continued engagement and discussion with maternal infant health stakeholders and advisement of the Maternal Infant Strategy Group. Michigan has a higher infant mortality rate than the national rate, with 6.8 deaths per 1,000 live births. There are also significant disparities that exist across race. The plan emphasizes addressing both clinical and non-clinical factors, such as housing, racial biases, access to family planning and promoting safe sleep practices. Dr. Joneigh Khaldun chief medical executive for MDHHS said While many people are doing great work to improve the lives of mothers, infants and families, the data shows there is much more we need to do. The plan will be released in 2020 and run through 2023.
