St. Joseph’s Health in Syracuse marked the International Day of the Midwife by acknowledging the vital role midwives play in healthcare systems worldwide. This observance emphasizes the contributions of midwives to safe and compassionate reproductive health care.
“Midwives are educators, advocates, and care providers who walk alongside patients at every step of their reproductive journey,” stated Dr. Jessica Brown, a Certified Nurse Midwife at St. Joseph’s Health. “We support healthy pregnancies and births, but we also promote long-term wellness and informed decision-making for women and families.”
At St. Joseph’s Health, midwives operate within a collaborative care model that includes prenatal, labor and delivery, postpartum, and general gynecological support. Their approach focuses on shared decision-making, emotional support, and cultural competence to enhance maternal and neonatal outcomes.
The celebration aligns with Black Maternal Health Week (April 11–17), an initiative by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance to highlight disparities in maternal health and encourage community-driven solutions.
“As a practicing Midwife of Color in Syracuse—and the only one in Central New York—I recognize how important it is to lead with representation,” remarked Dr. Brown. “Black, Indigenous, and People of Color continue to face systemic barriers, including implicit bias and unequal access to respectful care. Through my work, both in and outside the clinic, I’m working to address these challenges and create safe, inclusive healthcare experiences for everyone.”
