Empowering Birth Workers to Address Maternal Hypertension: Evaluation of a Community-Based Training in Wisconsin.

BACKGROUND

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are a leading cause of maternal morbidity, especially among Black, Indigenous, and rural birthing individuals.

METHODS

A multidisciplinary team developed and evaluated a community-based training for birth workers to enhance knowledge and response to maternal hypertension.

RESULTS

Participants reported high satisfaction with the training across multiple domains. Confidence increased across all learning objectives. Follow-up data showed strong intent to apply learning, with most participants planning practice changes. Planners also observed a need to focus on skill-building and inclusion of birth workers in the planning process.

DISCUSSION: Results suggest that targeted training for birth workers is feasible, impactful, and supports their critical role in addressing hypertensive disorder disparities. Ongoing sessions will integrate skill-building and deeper community engagement.