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Students present Women NC research to Durham commissioners on maternal, dental and Latinx survivor health
Summary
Three student researchers working with Women NC presented local research and policy recommendations on maternal health disparities, a 'smile gap' in prenatal dental care, and barriers facing Latinx survivors of intimate partner violence. Commissioners and county staff discussed next steps for coordination with public health and community partners.
Representatives from Women NC and three student researchers presented to the Durham County Board of Commissioners on April 6, offering evidence‑based recommendations tied to maternal health, oral health, and services for Latinx survivors of intimate partner violence.
Beth Dean, founder of Women NC, introduced the work and said Durham previously passed a CEDAW‑style resolution and that student research had informed local policy discussion. "These are not just the research. These are our student recommendations for policy," she told the board.
Noel Smith (North Carolina Central University) discussed the cultural "strong Black woman" archetype and its toll on physical and mental health, calling for bias‑aware maternity care, respectful maternity protocols, and expanded doula coverage. "Just because you carry it well does not mean it isn't heavy," Smith said.
Caroline J (Duke University) described a 'smile gap' in which pregnant women eligible for Medicaid dental coverage rarely receive care — statewide utilization for eligible pregnant women was cited as only about 8.5%. She urged higher Medicaid dental reimbursement rates, integrated warm handoffs from prenatal clinics to dental appointments, and investments in patient navigation.
Shelina Morgan‑López (NC State) presented interviews and data showing Latinx survivors face language barriers, fear of ICE enforcement, transportation and economic constraints, and cultural stigma that impede help‑seeking; she recommended stronger bilingual services, legal and mental‑health funding stabilization, and protections that allow undocumented survivors to seek services safely.
Commissioners responded positively and asked staff to ensure public health, Lincoln Community Health Center and Durham's family justice and crisis response centers receive the student reports for follow‑up. "I will make sure Rod (the public health director) and partners receive these reports — this is timely and actionable," a commissioner said.
Next steps: staff agreed to circulate the student reports to county public health and community partners and explore policy channels (including state contacts) for Medicaid dental reimbursement and maternal health policy recommendations.
