A statewide collaborative of healthcare providers, public health leaders, researchers, philanthropy, and community-based organizations has launched the Maternal Health Vitality Think Tank to coordinate systems-level solutions and advance maternal vitality across Georgia. The initiative responds to Georgia's position among the bottom 10 states nationally in maternal mortality, recognizing that isolated programs or single-sector solutions have hindered sustainable improvements in maternal health outcomes.
Convened by Georgia Health Initiative, the MHVTT unites cross-sector leaders with a shared vision of a Georgia where every family can experience maternal vitality through healthy pregnancies, safe childbirth, and dignified recovery. Kristy Klein Davis, President and CEO of Georgia Health Initiative, emphasized that the think tank creates infrastructure to connect existing efforts rather than establishing another program. This approach helps stakeholders understand the full landscape, build on successful initiatives, and collaborate more effectively to drive lasting statewide impact.
The MHVTT focuses on three immediate priorities: coordinated trauma-informed care, workforce development, and aligned public and private financing for systems-level change. The newly launched website, MaternalVitalityGa.org, serves as a strategic action hub housing research, coordinated strategy, and aligned investments for Georgia stakeholders. Alison Rodden, CEO and Chief Strategist at HCN Global, highlighted the importance of elevating diverse perspectives and experiences to create conditions for real systems change that ensures every mother and baby can thrive.
For business and technology leaders, this initiative demonstrates how cross-sector collaboration and systems thinking can address complex societal challenges. The MHVTT's approach to coordinating existing resources rather than creating new programs offers a model for efficient resource allocation and impact measurement. The emphasis on aligned financing mechanisms presents opportunities for private sector engagement in public health solutions, potentially creating new investment models for social impact.
The think tank's partners include prominent organizations such as the Annie E. Casey Foundation, Black Mamas Matter Alliance, Emory University, Morehouse School of Medicine's Center for Maternal Health Equity, and multiple healthcare associations. This broad coalition reflects the recognition that maternal health requires coordinated action across healthcare delivery, education, policy, and community support systems. The initiative's success could influence how other states approach maternal health challenges and demonstrate the effectiveness of collaborative, systems-level interventions in healthcare.
