Improving maternal health for racially diverse women in Southeastern Wisconsin

Addressing Key Social-Structural Risk Factors for Racial Disparities in Maternal Morbidity in Southeastern Wisconsin (ASCEND WI)

NIH-funded research Medical College of Wisconsin · NIH-10908679

This study is all about finding ways to improve the health of new moms in Southeastern Wisconsin, especially for those facing challenges like unstable housing or distrust in the medical system, by working together with local partners to create better support and care options.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMedical College of Wisconsin NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Milwaukee, United States)
Project IDNIH-10908679 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding and addressing the social and structural factors that contribute to racial disparities in maternal health outcomes in Southeastern Wisconsin. It involves collaboration with community partners to tackle issues such as housing instability, medical mistrust, and limited access to postpartum care. The approach includes three main projects: working with housing organizations, employing community-based doulas, and utilizing community health workers alongside telemonitoring for postpartum care. By engaging with the community, the research aims to create sustainable solutions that improve maternal health equity.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are racially diverse women in Southeastern Wisconsin who are pregnant or have recently given birth.

Not a fit: Patients who do not reside in Southeastern Wisconsin or who are not part of the targeted racial and ethnic groups may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to significant improvements in maternal health outcomes for racially diverse women, reducing morbidity and mortality rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in addressing social determinants of health to improve maternal outcomes, indicating that this approach has potential for positive impact.

Where this research is happening

Milwaukee, 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.