Improving maternal health for Native mothers through culturally integrated care
Official title: CEREMONY: Culturally Engaged REcovery - MOms connected through Native community
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-10908713 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working to help pregnant and new mothers from American Indian and Alaska Native communities by combining support for mental health and substance use with their maternity care, making it easier for them to get the help they need during and after pregnancy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | August 17, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $627,394 |
| NIH project number | 5U54HD113169-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10908713 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant and postpartum American Indian and Alaska Native mothers who may be at risk for substance use and mental health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not part of the American Indian or Alaska Native communities may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on addressing the high rates of maternal mortality among pregnant and postpartum American Indian and Alaska Native mothers by integrating substance use disorder treatment and mental health care into perinatal services. The project aims to adapt existing care models to better meet the cultural and social needs of Native mothers, particularly during the postpartum period when risks are highest. By collaborating with local Tribal clinics, the research seeks to enhance access to care, reduce stigma, and provide comprehensive support tailored to the community's needs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce maternal mortality rates among Native mothers by providing culturally relevant and accessible healthcare services.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in integrating culturally tailored healthcare approaches for Indigenous populations, indicating a promising potential for this method.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Debbink, Michelle Precourt — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Debbink, Michelle Precourt
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.