In this powerful episode of The Medical Collective, Dr. Keisha Davis and Dr. Sharon Smith host a timely discussion for Black Maternal Health Week, joined by two incredible guest physicians: Dr. Cynthia Wesley and Dr. Nikki Rowan. Together, they explore the ongoing maternal health crisis affecting Black women in America, personal stories from the frontline, and how to rebuild trust while advocating for better outcomes.
We cover:
Shocking statistics about Black maternal health disparities.
The trust gap between patients and the healthcare system — and how to bridge it.
Personal experiences as Black women physicians and patients.
Fun and unexpected facts about maternal health.
Concrete changes needed in healthcare education, practice, and policy.
How listeners can advocate, support, and navigate their own healthcare journeys.
Plus, we reflect on heartbreaking recent news, including the celebrity death from amniotic fluid embolism, the rising measles cases tied to airports, and the ongoing challenges inside the CDC after major staff changes.
Meet Your Hosts:
Dr. Keisha Davis, M.D. – Board-certified Pathologist, Fitness Trainer, Public Speaker
Website: https://drkeishadavis.komi.io/
Email: askdrkeishamd@gmail.com
Dr. Sharon Smith, M.D. – Board-certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist, Aesthetic Specialist
Website: https://sharonsmithmd.com
Email: info@sharonsmithmd.com
Special Guests:
Dr. Cynthia Wesley (Dr. Cyn) – Board-certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcynobgyn?igsh=MTZrMmFqOGpyandqMg==
Website: https://www.beautybelowmd.com/
Dr. Nikki Rowan, M.D. – Board-certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikki_rowan?igsh=MXNrY3B6Mmo4ZnNlaA==
Resources:
Black Mamas Matter Alliance: https://blackmamasmatter.org
CDC Black Maternal Health Data: https://www.cdc.gov/hearher/blackmaternalhealth/index.html
March of Dimes Maternal Care Report Card: https://www.marchofdimes.org/perinatal-data-center
Amniotic Fluid Embolism Foundation: https://www.afesupport.org
CDC Measles Updates: https://www.cdc.gov/measles/cases-outbreaks.html
Latest on CDC Layoffs and Rebuilding: https://www.statnews.com/2024/04/10/cdc-layoffs-budget-vaccine-pandemic
