Community Medical Center is proud to announce the launch of the Special Delivery Program, an initiative aimed at improving postpartum care and reducing maternal mortality. This innovative program provides postpartum patients with wristbands to wear for six weeks after delivery, helping ensure they receive timely and appropriate care for any potential complications.  

The Special Delivery Program reflects Community’s commitment to advancing maternal health by prioritizing early intervention and raising awareness about the risks associated with the postpartum period. The wristbands act as a visible reminder for patients, families and healthcare providers to remain vigilant about postpartum health during this critical time.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2022, the U.S. maternal mortality rate was 22.3 deaths per 100,000 live births which is significantly higher than rates in other high-income countries. Alarmingly, the maternal mortality rate for Black women in the U.S. is even higher at 69.9 deaths per 100,000 live births.

Many postpartum complications, such as anemia, hypertension, heart conditions and infections occur days or weeks after delivery, and 53% of pregnancy-related deaths happen between 7 and 365 days postpartum. The Special Delivery Program seeks to change this by empowering postpartum patients to advocate for their health and ensuring providers are aware of recent deliveries when diagnosing and treating these patients.

“The new program at Community is an important step forward in supporting women’s health,” said Dr. Tim Mitchell, maternal & fetal medicine specialist at Community Medical Center. “By educating patients, their loved ones and encouraging community awareness we are enhancing care and saving the lives of postpartum women during a critical time.”

As part of this program, postpartum patients will be provided with a Special Delivery wristband before leaving the hospital. This discreet but effective tool helps identify postpartum patients and ensures healthcare providers are aware of recent pregnancies, reducing the risk of misdiagnosis.

In addition to wearing the wristband, families, friends and community members are encouraged to “check in” on patients that delivered within the last year. If you see someone wearing a Special Delivery wristband, take a moment to ask how they are feeling and encourage them to seek medical care if they express concerns about their physical and mental health.

For more information on the Special Delivery Program, including warning signs to watch for, visit CommunityMed.org.

The Special Delivery Program is not intended to replace postpartum provider visits but to serve as an additional tool to support patients as part of their overall postpartum care plan. Attending scheduled postpartum appointments remains essential for recovery and for addressing any concerns directly with a healthcare provider.