Disability Advocacy and Inclusivity in Maternal Health

In this episode, Dr. Sarah Verbiest dives into a crucial conversation about disability and maternal health with Mallory Cyr, Program Manager of Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs at the Association for Maternal and Child Health Programs. Join as they explore the broad spectrum of disability, discussing chronic illness, physical and sensory disabilities, and the need for a more inclusive approach in maternal health. Mallory shares insights on reclaiming the word "disability," the importance of disability justice, and the intersectionality often overlooked in maternal and child health discussions. Discover actionable steps healthcare providers and individuals can take to dismantle ableism in the healthcare system, ensuring inclusivity and support for people with disabilities in the context of maternal health.

Resources for this episode:

• MHLIC's Perinatal Disabilities Resources
• "U.S. medical schools aren’t teaching future doctors about 7.4 million of their patients," STAT News
• "These Doctors Admit They Don’t Want Patients With Disabilities," The New York Times
• "Perceived Disability-Based Discrimination in Health Care for Children With Medical Complexity," National Library of Medicine

Learn more about us, explore our resource center and find support for all maternal health professionals at MaternalHealthLearning.org or MaternalHealthPodcast.org. Maternal Health Innovation is a product of the Maternal Health Learning and Innovation Center and is produced by Earfluence.

Music provided by Graham Makes.

MHLIC collaborates with many organizations and people for content such as the podcasts, videos, and webinar series. The statements, information, and opinions shared may not reflect MHLIC and MHLIC partners. Our team strives to hold ourselves and invited experts accountable, and will address violations to our values and overall mission. Read our full disclaimer here.

This project is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under grant number U7CMC33636 State Maternal Health Innovation Support and Implementation Program Cooperative Agreement. This information or content and conclusions are those of the author and should not be construed as the official position or policy of, nor should any endorsements be inferred by HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government.