New Think Tank Launches to Enhance Maternal Health in Georgia

Advancing Maternal Vitality in Georgia: A New Era of Collaboration

On January 29, 2026, a pivotal initiative was launched in Georgia designed to address critical gaps in maternal health. The Maternal Health Vitality Think Tank (MHVTT) unites a diverse coalition of health care professionals, public health leaders, researchers, and community organizations with the goal of advancing maternal health and wellbeing throughout the state.

Despite significant strides in various health metrics, Georgia finds itself among the bottom ten states nationally for maternal mortality. This stark reality has prompted stakeholders to recognize the necessity for systematic change. The creation of MHVTT is a strategic response to the prevalent issue of isolated programs that often yield limited impact. As Kristy Klein Davis, President and CEO of the Georgia Health Initiative, aptly noted, “The Maternal Health Vitality Think Tank is about connecting what already exists rather than creating another program.” Such an approach aims to better understand the current landscape of maternal health services and to enhance the efficacy of existing initiatives.

The focus of this think tank rests on enhancing collaboration among sectors to create a cohesive ecosystem that supports maternal vitality. This goes beyond mere survival; the initiative seeks to ensure that families in Georgia thrive during the critical phases of pregnancy and postpartum recovery. Alison Rodden, CEO of HCN Global, emphasized the importance of culturally responsive maternal health support, underscoring the need for coordinated care that addresses various community needs. “When we bring diverse perspectives together with strategic communications,” she stated, “we create the conditions for real systems change.”

Immediate Priorities of the MHVTT

The MHVTT has identified three immediate priorities that are expected to guide its strategic initiatives:
1. Coordinated, Trauma-Informed Care: Recognizing that maternal health issues can have deep psychological and emotional ramifications, the think tank aims to establish a trauma-informed approach in all services, ensuring that the needs of mothers and their families are at the forefront.
2. Workforce Development: Addressing the shortage of qualified maternal health professionals is critical. The MHVTT envisions a stronger workforce through targeted training and development initiatives designed to empower healthcare providers in Georgia.
3. Aligned Public and Private Financing: By forging partnerships that align public and private funding, the MHVTT seeks to create a sustainable model for funding maternal health services, thus ensuring that resources are allocated effectively.

To facilitate these objectives, the MHVTT has launched a dedicated website, MaternalVitalityGa.org, which serves as a comprehensive resource hub. It provides research, strategic insights, and a platform for collaboration among practitioners and organizations involved in maternal health. The website aims to be an actionable guide for stakeholders seeking to contribute to the overall improvement of maternal care.

The collaborative nature of the MHVTT is a hallmark of its mission. By bringing together expertise from various sectors and promoting shared goals, partners believe they can create a more unified approach to addressing maternal health challenges in Georgia. With backing from notable organizations, including the Atlanta Birth Center, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists - Georgia, and the Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition of Georgia, the MHVTT is set to make a significant impact in the realm of maternal health.

Conclusion

The launch of the Maternal Health Vitality Think Tank marks a significant milestone in Georgia's health landscape. By focusing on systems-level collaborations to facilitate improved maternal health initiatives, this coalition aims to foster a more vibrant community where every family has the opportunity to thrive. As the MHVTT continues to grow and expand its reach, the hope is that Georgia will soon see marked improvements in maternal health outcomes, setting a precedent for other states to follow. For more information and resources, visit MaternalVitalityGa.org.