BOC concludes testimony on maternal health as a right
Cintron Hernandez says maternal health encompasses childbirth and the months after, requiring medical and mental health services, family contact, and continuity of care. She says BOC will oversee implementation and report concerns.
In conclusion, maternal health, particularly postpartum,
encompasses not just the immediacy of childbirth, but the months and sometimes years that follow.
Access to appropriate medical and mental health services, opportunities to maintain contact with their children and continuity of care, as well as coordination between correctional and healthcare staff are the pillars of maternal health that we should not only uphold,
but also guarantee through the policies in our correctional system in accordance with Section 306E of our standards.
The Board commends ongoing efforts by the Department, CHS, and City Council to ensure availability and access to these resources.
We are committed to overseeing the implementation of these policies and reporting any concerns to the relevant agencies, the Council, and the public.
Thank you again for the opportunity to testify, and we welcome any questions you may have.
Thank you, and thank you for sending your testimony yesterday.
I had an opportunity to read it.
I appreciate the advanced opportunity.