Cleveland, OH – In recognition of Midwifery Week (October 5-12) and as Black infant mortality and maternal morbidity rates raise concerns across the nation, Neighborhood Family Practice Medical Center announces a sharpened focus on pre and postnatal care in Cleveland.

“We know firsthand that our midwifery services include life-saving benefits,” said NFP President and CEO Domonic Hopson. “Our positive outcomes outpace those of larger hospital systems, not only in Cleveland, but in Ohio. Our wraparound approach to infant and maternal care is making a difference and we are excited to enhance and expand our services.”

New enhancements and expanded services include:

• Partnership with Birthing Beautiful Communities (BBC): NFP has joined forces with BBC to integrate innovative birthing practices and cultural resources into infant and maternal services. This collaboration includes a doula match program that provides prenatal support, advocacy and care through the baby’s first year.
• Cultural Education: To help overcome cultural barriers, NFP has introduced an education program for health care workers who treat refugees and newcomer maternity patients. The program provides insights and advice for navigating cultural sensitivities during and after pregnancy.
• Interpretation Services: To better serve its diverse community, NFP is introducing a new app that assists in bridging language barriers. The app, “Mother Tongue” ensures that families who do not speak English have access to clear communication with providers- promoting equity and inclusivity.
• Centering Groups: Centering groups have proven to be a successful way to provide a supportive community for expecting moms. As a result, NFP has increased the number of groups and began piloting centering based on language preferences.
• Lactation Internship: NFP has introduced a new internship program to provide hands-on support from an experienced lactation consultant. Through a First Year Cleveland grant, NFP is introducing a diverse training program for lactation services. This initiative aims to support maternal and infant health, enhancing the overall well-being of diverse families.
• Baby Dance Classes: Introducing monthly baby dance classes as a fun and interactive way for parents and infants to bond while promoting physical development. These classes offer a joyful experience that strengthens the parent-child connection and supports early developmental milestones.

By the Numbers: NFP Outcomes for Black Births in Comparison to State and Local Outcomes:

*According to 2020-2022 data from March of Dimes and the Ohio Department of Health.

About Neighborhood Family Practice

Neighborhood Family Practice is a Federally Qualified Health Center in Cleveland providing primary, midwifery, behavioral health, HIV, refugee, dental, podiatry and pharmacy services for all regardless of the ability to pay. Our mission is to build healthy communities through accessible, high-value health care.

In 2023, NFP served 22,140 patients from every ward and suburb in Cuyahoga County – with 81,848 visits at seven locations in Cleveland and Lakewood.

For more information, please contact: Kim Kowalski, 216.406.2076