Rural Maternal Health Environmental Scan. Final 5.22

Rural Maternal Health Environmental Scan: Final Report

Supported through the 2025 State Rural Health Association/State Office of Rural Health Maternal and Child Health Supplemental Funding administered by the National Rural Health Association, the Rural Maternal Health Environmental Scan was conducted to better understand how Michigan Critical Access Hospitals support maternal and infant health across both birthing and non-birthing settings. The project examined maternal readiness, emergency obstetric preparedness, workforce challenges, care coordination, and the growing role of rural Emergency Departments in maternal care. Participating hospitals identified a need for increased education, simulation training, interdisciplinary drills, practical readiness tools, and ongoing technical assistance to support maternal emergencies and improve care coordination. The findings provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing Critical Access Hospitals and can inform future partnerships and statewide strategies to strengthen maternal and infant health outcomes across rural Michigan.

Environmental Scan

Questions? Contact 

Laura Stoddard, MHA
Social Drivers of Health Manager
laura.mispelon@affiliate.msu.edu