To address a higher rate of infant mortality among African Americans, Great Lakes Bay Health Centers is recruiting an outreach staff.
“Doula,” pronounced “doo-lah,” will be the title for “a person who provides emotional and physical support during pregnancy and childbirth.” Organizers aim to begin with 10 full-timers and three part-timers.
Interested persons need not possess special qualifications, beyond being “someone who shares a lived experience.”
The WebMD description continues: “Doulas are not medical professionals. They don’t deliver babies or provide medical care. A certified doula has taken a training program and passed an exam in how to help pregnant women and their families during this exciting but challenging experience.”
Michigan’s statewide infant death rate is 14.5 per 1,000 births among African Americans, 7.3 for Latinos and 4.1 among whites. Anyone interested may inquire by calling (989) 992-5749.
