DCMH associates participate in state infant mortality panel

(GREENSBURG, Ind.) – Two Decatur County Memorial Hospital associates recently participated in a panel at the Indiana Department of Health Pilot Hospital Kickoff Meeting.

Maternal Health Advocate Shannon Paul and Chief Nursing Officer Jenny Simon shared the critical work being done to reduce maternal and infant morbidity and mortality in Decatur County.

During her presentation, Paul shared the scope of her work which includes counseling, education, research, comprehensive pregnancy support and access to resources. 

The presentation also addressed the urgent need for maternal health programs in Indiana, where the state ranks third highest nationally in maternal mortality and seventh highest in infant mortality. 

Contributing factors include limited access to care, socioeconomic challenges such as transportation and housing, and stigma surrounding maternal health issues.

“Every part of this work is about making sure mothers feel supported, informed, and never alone,” said Simon. “By meeting families where they are and connecting them to the right resources, we can help create safer, healthier beginnings for both moms and babies.”

For more information about how mothers and families can receive support throughout pregnancy and beyond, please visit dcmh.net /ob-maternity or call 812-222-BABY (2229).