Honoring Hispanic Heritage Month, Spotlight: The Latin Maternal Health Crisis

Patricia Encina, Co-Founder, Modelo Health

Celebrated from September 15 to October 15, Hispanic Heritage Month honors the rich history, culture, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. This period encourages us to embrace the values of unity and resilience within the Hispanic communities that continue to shape our nation. As a third-generation Latina American married to a first-generation Latino American and raising two young children, I am constantly inspired by our roots. I’m grateful for the occasion of Hispanic Heritage Month which allows the country a moment to recognize and celebrate our heritage. We take pride in being Latinos and feel fortunate to share our beautiful culture and traditions.

On the flip side, there are still many who do not fully understand our culture yet, although I remain hopeful. As co-founders of a company dedicated to addressing the maternal healthcare crisis, Nic and I believe one of the greatest gifts we can provide our children and communities of color is the power of knowledge and the confidence that comes with utilizing that information.

This past month as we highlighted the disparities specific to Latin mothers in the U.S., we recognized that they are significantly affected by the ongoing maternal health crisis. Despite advancements in healthcare, Latin mothers face disproportionately high rates of maternal morbidity and mortality. Contributing factors include socioeconomic disparities, limited access to quality healthcare, language barriers, and a shortage of culturally sensitive care. Many Latin women experience delays in prenatal care, which can lead to complications that might have been prevented with early intervention. Systemic issues such as racism and implicit bias within the healthcare system further worsen these challenges, resulting in inadequate care for Latin mothers.

However, there is a path forward as more organizations, healthcare providers, and advocates take action to tackle this crisis. For those wondering how to help, we need to ensure better access to affordable healthcare, enhance culturally competent services, and advocate for policies that protect the health and rights of all mothers. By prioritizing equity in maternal care for Latin women, we can save the lives of mothers and their babies, benefiting not just the Latin community, but the future of all Americans.