January 23 is Maternal Health Awareness Day, an annual observance dedicated to raising awareness about maternal health issues and advocating for better care for mothers during pregnancy and postpartum periods. This year’s theme, “Know What’s at Stake,” emphasizes the urgent need to address the ongoing maternal mortality crisis and the disparities in maternal health care.

On this day, health organizations, advocates, and communities across the country come together to promote maternal health and safety. Events include educational programs, community rallies, and policy advocacy efforts aimed at improving maternal health outcomes. By knowing what’s at stake, we can collectively work toward a future where every birthing parent receives the care and support needed for a healthy pregnancy and postpartum experience.

Health Quality Innovators (HQI) is proud to lead the Maryland Perinatal-Neonatal Quality Collaborative (MDPQC). This network of perinatal care providers and public health professionals works to improve health outcomes for birthing people and newborns through continuous quality improvement. The Collaborative provides participating birthing hospitals with educational resources, technical assistance and a platform for communication and sharing of best practices.

Visit the MDPQC website to learn more about our initiatives and how we support healthcare professionals, parents and parents-to-be.