In a major step forward for maternal health equity, the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s (UAB) Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology study Alabama Womb2Heart Community Health Worker Solution (AW2H) has been selected to move forward as a finalist in Phase II of the NIH Build Up Trust Challenge. This prestigious recognition positions AW2H among the top ten finalists from across the nation, highlighting its innovative approach to addressing adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs) and their associated racial disparities.
Addressing Critical Gaps in Maternal Health
The AW2H study, led by UAB OB/GYN’s Rachel Sinkey, M.D., Jesse Rattan, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Fellow, and Kayla Torres, MPH, Predoctoral Fellow, aims to tackle the significant racial disparities in adverse pregnancy outcomes, which can lead to poor health outcomes for both mothers and infants, as well as long-term cardiovascular risks for mothers. The study’s central strategy involves pairing Black mother/infant dyads who have experienced an APO with a Community Health Worker (CHW) for one year following childbirth. This approach is designed to build trust and improve health outcomes by providing continuous support and bridging gaps in care.
“Adverse pregnancy outcomes are not just medical challenges but are deeply rooted in systemic racial inequalities,” said Sinkey, who expressed enthusiasm about the team’s progress. “We are thrilled to be among the top 10 finalists across specialties from across the states and look forward to competing in NIH Phase II Build Up Trust.”
The Path Forward
The NIH Build Up Trust Challenge aims to identify and support innovative solutions that build trust and improve health outcomes in underserved communities. AW2H’s advancement to Phase II of the challenge includes a rigorous year-long implementation and testing period. During this phase, the team will refine their approach, measure its impact, and work toward addressing the health disparities that disproportionately affect marginalized communities.
The Phase II period commenced with a kick-off meeting in late June 2024, followed by interim evaluations and a final presentation scheduled for June 2025. The challenge provides an opportunity for finalists to strengthen their solutions and compete for up to $200,000 in prize funding.
Community and Collaboration
The AW2H project is a collaboration with ConnectionHealth, a community partner committed to improving health outcomes through innovative, community-based solutions. By working closely with local communities, AW2H seeks to foster meaningful connections and trust between healthcare providers and underserved populations.
In a recent virtual demonstration on June 12, 2024, the project was featured in a presentation of the finalists’ solutions. As part of the preparation, the AW2H team shared a video detailing the project’s goals, approach, and anticipated impact. This visibility further highlights the significance of their work and its potential to transform maternal health care.
Looking Ahead
The selection of AW2H as a finalist will no doubt advance the project aspirations to improve health equity and address systemic issues in maternal care. The team’s innovative approach and dedication to building trust within underserved communities position them as leaders in the field and as champions of positive change.