Molina Healthcare of Iowa Donates $10,000 to the Iowa Black Doula Collective to Reduce Racial Disparities in Health Outcomes for Newborns
Ben Jackey, Ben.Jackey@molinahealthcare.com, (502) 377-9484
DAVENPORT, Iowa, August 6, 2024 – Molina Healthcare of Iowa (“Molina”) announced a grant to fund training for doulas to support Black mothers and their babies. The $10,000 donation to the Iowa Black Doula Collective aims to increase the amount of certified lactation consultants in the region.
In 2021, only 69% of Black mothers in Iowa breastfeed at the time of hospital discharge compared to 84% of white mothers in Iowa, according to the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services. The CDC found just one in four babies are breastfed during the recommended first six months after birth. Benefits for those who are breastfed can include reduced risks of asthma, obesity, Type 1 diabetes, severe lower respiratory disease, ear infections, and infant death syndrome. Breastfeeding can also help lower a mother’s risk of high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, as well as ovarian and breast cancer.
The Molina grant will cover 100% of costs for lactation consultant training. Mentorship will be provided by experienced staff from the Iowa Black Doula Collective. The support from the Collective ensures doulas receive culturally competent instruction to meet the needs specific to mothers of color.
“A healthy beginning for newborns is an important first step towards a healthy life, and this initiative will give mothers the tools they need to support their child’s path to wellness,” said Jennifer Vermeer, plan president of Molina Healthcare of Iowa. “Molina is proud to support the Iowa Black Doula Collectives’ efforts to increase equity and outcomes for underserved families.”
“Receiving funding from Molina Healthcare of Iowa to support doulas from the Iowa Black Doula Collective in becoming certified lactation consultants will significantly enhance breastfeeding support within the BIPOC community, addressing disparities in maternal and infant health,” said Ebonie Bailey, co-founder and executive director of the Iowa Black Doula Collective. “This initiative will empower more BIPOC doulas with specialized skills, leading to better breastfeeding outcomes and increased confidence among new mothers. Additionally, it fosters community trust and culturally competent care, promoting long-term health benefits for both mothers and babies in underserved populations.”
About Molina Healthcare of Iowa
Molina Healthcare of Iowa, Inc. serves members through its Medicaid program in Iowa. Through its locally operated health plans, Molina Healthcare, Inc., a Fortune 500 company, provides managed health care services under the Medicaid and Medicare programs, and through state insurance marketplaces. For more information about Molina Healthcare of Iowa, visit MolinaHealthcare.com.
About the Iowa Black Doula Collective
The Iowa Black Doula Collective (IBDC) was established in 2020 to positively impact Black maternal health in the state of Iowa. Their mission is to train and prepare diverse doulas to advocate for and empower BIPOC individuals through their prenatal, birth, and postpartum experiences. IBDC provides evidence-based, equity-centered support for birth workers through comprehensive services and education to cultivate community among birthworkers, families, and healthcare professionals in Iowa.
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