Dr. Stephanie Devane-Johnson Ph.D., CNM, FACNM, Co-Presenter

Stephanie is an Associate Professor in the Midwifery Department at Vanderbilt University School of Nursing. She received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from the University of North Carolina – Charlotte, a Master of Science Degree in Nursing and Certification in Nurse-Midwifery from Vanderbilt University, and a Ph.D. in Nursing from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Dr. Devane-Johnson has been a Certified Nurse-Midwife for 23+ years and has worked in private practice settings as well as academic institutions, providing care for women from all ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds. In her 22 years, she has caught over 2,000 babies.

Dr. DeVane Johnson’s research is focused on breastfeeding and health disparities in African Americans. She has written and published on the impact that cultural and socio-historical influences have on African Americans. These publications document the emerging problem of cultural and historical factors that impact infant feeding decision-making among African American mothers.

Dr. DeVane-Johnson is also on the Board of Directors for the IBCLC “Pathway 2 Breastfeeding” program at A&T University in Greensboro NC. A community initiative that aims to combat health disparities in the African-American community by increasing the number of Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC) of color who can provide breastfeeding education and support.

Session

Racial Disparities in Perinatal Health, A National Crisis: Concordant Perinatal Doulas are Making a Difference

The U.S. has the highest rates of perinatal mortality and morbidity among high wealthy countries. And while this needs to be addressed overall, it’s clear that Black birthing people suffer disproportionately high rates. In the U.S., Black birthers and their babies die at 3-4 times the rate of their White counterparts and their babies.

Doulas have been shown to improve birth outcomes. This project’s unique strength is a holistic approach to addressing perinatal morbidity and mortality among Black birthers. Workforce diversity is particularly urgent in supportive care during pregnancy and childbirth. High fees and limited availability of culturally appropriate training have made it very difficult for Black doulas to receive DONA certification.

This unique project is a significant step toward addressing this key equity issue. We have implemented a model to address racial inequities in access to culturally appropriate doula care and in access to Doula certification among Black families.