On September 17, 2024, with the launch of Strong Start & Beyond, the Office of the California Surgeon General set an ambitious goal to reduce California's maternal mortality rate 50% by December 2026. As we look ahead to the new year, here is an update on our latest efforts in 2025 to help improve reproductive and maternal health outcomes across the state. | | Preconception Medical Assessment (PreMA) | | |
In January, we launched the Preconception Medical Assessment (PreMA), an eight-question tool and conversation starter that people can take anytime, anywhere. PreMA encourages early actions to prepare for a healthy pregnancy and baby. Through a social media outreach campaign, PreMA generated nearly 8 million impressions. This practical yet empowering approach is inspiring other states across the U.S., as well as other countries, to adopt PreMA in their communities.
In partnership with Delfina, we also created a digital version/widget of PreMA that can be added to websites and apps, making it even easier for people and organizations to share the tool with their audiences in digital, online spaces.
| | Improving Cardiovascular Health Summit | |
In February, we convened leaders from across government, healthcare, and technology sectors for the Maternal Health Summit: Improving Cardiovascular Health. In California, the leading cause of pregnancy-related deaths is cardiovascular disease, of which 80% are preventable.
Outcomes from the summit included stronger collaboration and identified immediate opportunities to improve the most common cause of death in women. For more information about the summit and topic, check out our Improving Cardiovascular Health Issue Brief.
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In May, we elevated maternal mental health nationwide through a partnership with Calm and the launch of the "Not Calm Moms Club," a place for all moms to be seen, find support, and feel less alone.
Calm featured PreMA as a free resource, and the campaign helped spark a vital conversation about the realities of postpartum stress and the importance of emotional well-being.
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In December, we announced the launch of "One Small Thing," a social media campaign that encourages people of all ages to support new moms during the postpartum period. More than 60% of maternal deaths happen after a mom leaves the hospital, when isolation is the highest and support is the lowest. Loneliness, occurring in 42% of new moms, is the strongest predictor of postpartum depression and crisis.
One small act of kindness, from a family member, neighbor, or friend, could be the support a new mom needs. Through simple, everyday acts of care, you could be the eyes and ears that help her recognize when she might need medical care.
| | Throughout the year, California Surgeon General Dr. Diana Ramos engaged in several efforts to connect with people across the state, guided by our mission to improve the health and well-being of all Californians. |
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Audio Series: So far, we have released 10 episodes of Office Hours with Dr. Diana Ramos that have received hundreds of plays.
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Facebook Live Discussions: Dr. Ramos hosted several important discussions with key partners, including Aloe Blacc, Angelina Spicer, Dr. Daniel Amen, and more, that have reached thousands of Californians.
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Media Interviews: Dr. Ramos participated in 25+ media interviews across different markets in radio, television, and print.
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Monthly Newsletter: With each publication about our movement's latest efforts, this newsletter reaches over 1,200 subscribers.
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Speaking Engagements: Across 80 in-person and virtual events, Dr. Ramos has spoken to more than 10,000 people about our shared priorities.
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Webinar Series: Dr. Ramos hosted a six-part webinar series on maternal mortality where hundreds of partners joined to hear from experts in the field.
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1:1 Partner Meetings: Throughout California, Dr. Ramos met with 70+ new and diverse partners interested in our work and how we can partner together to improve health outcomes.
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We look forward to continuing our work together in the new year to reduce maternal mortality, including expanding PreMA’s reach and continuing to amplify maternal health as a public health priority through collaboration, especially with tech and innovation partners.
Thank you to every clinician, community leader, parent, and partner who has supported us throughout the year. Your dedication fuels this movement and brings us closer to a Healthy California for All where we don’t just survive but we thrive.
Here’s to another year of impact, partnership, and strong beginnings. Happy holidays and happy new year. Together in health!
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