Skip to main content
2026 Policy & Issues Forum (P&I) Main banner

Serving Medically Underserved Populations

CE Credit Available

PTuE1 - Innovative Approaches to Preserving Access to Maternal Health Care: Leveraging Relationships as a Partner of Choice

Tuesday, February 10, 2026
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM ET
Location: Chesapeake J-L (Ballroom Level)
Knowledge Level: Basic
Prerequisite: N/A
CPE: 0
CME: 1
CEU: 1
ACHE: 1
Session Description: For over 60 years, health centers have provided comprehensive, affordable, community-centered, and high-quality primary care to individuals and families across the United States. This includes a host of healthcare services that support maternal health prior to, during, and after pregnancy. Over 35% of US counties are considered maternity care deserts, leaving nearly one in ten women of reproductive age without full access to maternity care.
This session will showcase how health centers are working to fight maternal mortality in their communities. Join this session to learn how health centers are leading initiatives that creatively sustain and expand access to care for expecting mothers, improve clinical outcomes, and retain high-quality providers

Learning Objectives:

  • Identify different ways health centers can engage with community partners to collaboratively maintain and improve access to maternal health care in their communities.
  • Analyze how the current political landscape both aids and restricts these partnerships' implementation and sustainability, demonstrating to policymakers that health centers are key to addressing maternal health gaps.
  • Apply talking points, lessons learned, training, and educational resources to elevate the crucial role Community Health Centers play in ensuring communities thrive for federal and state lawmakers and partners.