Oakland, California – April 4, 2024 – In celebration of Black Maternal Health Week, West Oakland Health, a trusted pillar in the community since 1967, is proud to announce its partnership with BabyLiveAdvice. This alliance marks a significant step forward in addressing the pressing needs of Black and Brown communities in Alameda County by providing accessible virtual maternal and infant support. The virtual maternal and infant support program will officially launch on April 8, 2024.

“We’re thrilled to partner with BabyLiveAdvice to expand our reach and provide comprehensive support to Black and Brown mothers and their infants in Alameda County,” said Kevin Smith, MD,Director of Gynecology and Reproductive Health at West Oakland Health. “This collaboration exemplifies our commitment to addressing disparities in maternal and infant health outcomes and promoting holistic well-being within our community.”

The timing of the partnership is perfectly aligned with West Oakland Health’s recent expansion of services offered by its Gynecology and Reproductive Health Department, and providers are very happy about what it will mean for patients. “I am excited about our ability to bring a center of perinatal excellence to our patients to close gaps in their care and their experience,” said Lasha Pierce, MD, an OB/GYN physician at West Oakland Health. “Black women deserve to have wrap around care, to be centered in our consciousness and to be the beneficiaries of all our resources, expertise, and dedication.”

With a shared commitment to equity and excellence in healthcare, West Oakland Health and BabyLiveAdvice aim to bridge gaps in healthcare access and ensure that all mothers and infants receive the care and support they deserve.

The virtual maternal and infant support program will offer a range of services, including:

• 24-hour access to high-risk pregnancy specialists
• Prenatal and postnatal education
• Breastfeeding support and lactation consulting
• Mental health resources for mothers
• Infant care guidance and parenting advice
• Access to community resources and referrals

By leveraging technology and telehealth solutions, West Oakland Health and BabyLiveAdvice strive to overcome barriers to healthcare access, particularly prevalent in marginalized communities. The virtual platform will enable individuals to seek guidance, connect with healthcare professionals, and access resources from the comfort of their homes.

“As advocates for equitable healthcare, BabyLiveAdvice is honored to join forces with West Oakland Health to empower mothers and families with the tools and resources they need to thrive,” said Sigi Marmorstein, CEO of BabyLiveAdvice. “Together, we will work tirelessly to ensure that every mother receives the care and support she deserves, regardless of her background or circumstances.”

West Oakland Health patients can begin accessing the program on April 8, 2024.

To learn more about the services offered or to register, please visit: https://wohc.vsee.me/u/clinic

For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact: Cheo Tyehimba Taylor, Director of Communications, West Oakland Health, (510) 901-1583 ext. 94305; Cheot@wohc.org

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About West Oakland Health:

West Oakland Health is a community-based health center dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive healthcare services to individuals and families in Oakland and surrounding areas since 1967. With a focus on addressing health disparities and promoting wellness, West Oakland Health offers a range of medical, dental, behavioral health, and support services to meet the diverse needs of the community. Our purpose is to be the trusted hub 

About BabyLiveAdvice:

BabyLiveAdvice is a leading telehealth platform specializing in maternal and infant care. Through innovative technology and a network of experienced healthcare professionals, BabyLiveAdvice provides accessible and personalized support to mothers and families during pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenthood. Committed to promoting maternal and infant health equity, BabyLiveAdvice strives to empower all individuals with the knowledge and resources to navigate their unique healthcare journeys.