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