The recent Resilient Tennessee Collaborative Meeting highlighted significant initiatives aimed at improving maternal and child health in East Tennessee, particularly focusing on addressing adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and promoting resilience among families. The meeting, led by the Metro Drug Coalition (MDC), emphasized the importance of creating a healthcare system that is educated about ACEs and equipped with trauma-informed practices.

One of the key discussions centered on the development of an ACEs toolkit specifically designed for obstetricians and gynecologists in the region. This toolkit aims to provide healthcare providers with the necessary resources and training to effectively discuss ACEs with their patients, particularly pregnant women. The initiative seeks to not only raise awareness about the prevalence of ACEs but also to foster a strengths-based approach that emphasizes resilience and recovery.

The meeting underscored alarming statistics regarding maternal mental health, revealing that one in five pregnant women suffers from mental health disorders, yet less than 15% receive treatment. The Tennessee Department of Health reported that substance use and mental health issues contributed to 41% of pregnancy-associated deaths from 2017 to 2020. These figures highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions to support vulnerable populations.

MDC representatives shared their vision of establishing an ACEs advisory board composed of OB-GYN champions from various healthcare facilities. This board will guide the development and implementation of the ACEs toolkit, ensuring it meets the needs of practitioners and their patients. The goal is to normalize discussions around ACEs and equip new parents with the knowledge to break cycles of trauma within families.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the importance of ongoing education for healthcare providers, as many lack training in trauma-informed care and substance use disorders. MDC has been actively involved in training healthcare professionals since 2015, focusing on addiction and its impact on families.

The collaborative efforts discussed at the meeting aim to improve birth outcomes and reduce infant mortality rates in Tennessee, which currently stands at seven deaths per 1,000 live births. By prioritizing education and support for pregnant women and new parents, the MDC and its partners hope to create a healthier community and foster resilience among families facing adversity.

As these initiatives move forward, the MDC is committed to bridging gaps in care and ensuring that all families have access to the resources they need for a successful and healthy future. The meeting concluded with a call to action for community members and healthcare providers to work together in addressing these critical issues.