Improving maternal health for Native mothers through culturally integrated care

CEREMONY: Culturally Engaged REcovery - MOms connected through Native community

NIH-funded research University of Utah · NIH-10908713

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 typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Utah NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Salt Lake City, United States)
Project IDNIH-10908713 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: 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.

Not a fit: Patients who are not part of the American Indian or Alaska Native communities may not receive direct benefits from this research.

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 performed: 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

Salt Lake City, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.