Improving maternal health access for Black birthing people in the Gulf South
Official title: Southern Center for Maternal Health Equity
Funded at Tulane University of Louisiana · NIH-10908669 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working to improve healthcare for Black women during pregnancy, especially in areas where it's hard to find good maternity care, by creating programs that help prevent complications and ensure they get the support they need before, during, and after having a baby.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tulane University of Louisiana NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Orleans, United States) |
| Project start | August 17, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $2,402,171 |
| NIH project number | 5U54HD113159-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10908669 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Black birthing individuals living in the Gulf South, especially those in areas with limited access to maternity care.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not identify as Black or who live outside the Gulf South region may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This project aims to implement comprehensive programs designed to prevent complications during pregnancy and enhance access to healthcare for Black birthing individuals, particularly in areas known as maternity care deserts. By focusing on the Gulf South region, the research will assess and develop strategies that address the unique challenges faced by these communities. The approach includes collaboration with local healthcare systems and advocacy efforts to ensure that women receive the necessary care before, during, and after childbirth.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce maternal complications and deaths among Black birthing individuals.
How similar studies have gone: Previous initiatives aimed at improving maternal health equity have shown promise, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Tulane University of Louisiana
New Orleans, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harville, Emily Wheeler — Tulane University of Louisiana
- Study coordinator: Harville, Emily Wheeler
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.