Greensburg, IN – December 19, 2025, Decatur County Memorial Hospital (DCMH) is proud to announce that the Maternal Health Advocate Shannon Paul participated in a discussion-based panel at the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) Pilot Hospital Kickoff Meeting on December 12. Paul was joined by DCMH’s Chief Nursing Officer, Jenny Simon. Paul highlighted the critical work being done to reduce maternal and infant morbidity and mortality in Decatur County.
During her presentation, Paul shared the scope of her work, emphasizing the comprehensive support provided to at-risk mothers and families, including:
· Counseling: One-on-one navigation and emotional support for patients, with specialized training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADS), Advanced Grief Counseling, and perinatal mental health
· Education and Coaching: Prenatal and breastfeeding classes, Baby 360 Education, perinatal and postpartum education, and guidance on healthy pregnancy and infant care
· Research: Continuous program development to improve prenatal care, family planning, and child wellness initiatives
· Comprehensive Pregnancy Support: Education on specific health needs, guidance in managing medical conditions, and advocacy for a safe and positive birth experience
· Access to Resources: Assistance with referrals, access to prenatal care, and connection to community support programs
The presentation also addressed the urgent need for maternal health programs in Indiana, where the state ranks third highest nationally in maternal mortality and seventh highest in infant mortality. Contributing factors include limited access to care, socioeconomic challenges such as transportation and housing, and stigma surrounding maternal health issues.
“Every part of this work is about making sure mothers feel supported, informed, and never alone,” said Simon. “By meeting families where they are and connecting them to the right resources, we can help create safer, healthier beginnings for both moms and babies.”
DCMH’s team engaged with providers, nurses, community health workers, fellow Maternal Health Advocates, IDOH Maternal and Child Health employees, grant writers, and doulas to share best practices, lessons learned, and strategies for successfully implementing Maternal Health Advocate roles across hospital systems.
For more information about how mothers and families can receive support throughout pregnancy and beyond, please visit dcmh.net /ob-maternity or call 812-222-BABY (2229).
Photo L to R: Jenny Simon, DCMH Chief Nursing Officer, and Shannon Paul, Maternal Health Advocate
