Last week, members of the Wisconsin Association for Perinatal Care (WAPC) team attended the annual Perinatal Quality Collaborative (PQC) meeting, joining multidisciplinary leaders from across the country dedicated to improving maternal and infant health outcomes through collaboration, quality improvement, and evidence-informed care.
Perinatal Quality Collaboratives are state or multi-state networks that bring together hospitals, providers, nurses, public health professionals, patients and families, and community partners to advance best practices and improve systems of care. Through data-driven, continuous quality improvement efforts, PQCs work to reduce care variation, close gaps in care, and strengthen outcomes for birthing people and infants.
During the meeting, WAPC’s WisPQC team members Megan and Sara presented a poster highlighting Wisconsin’s Levels of Care Initiative. Their presentation shared results from the pilot phase as well as insights into Year 1 designations, offering an opportunity to showcase Wisconsin’s work while learning from other PQCs implementing innovative initiatives across the country.
In addition to the poster presentation, Megan facilitated a packed-room discussion for the Rural Health affinity group. Participants shared experiences, challenges, and successful strategies related to advancing perinatal care in rural communities. The conversation reinforced the importance of collaboration and shared learning in addressing unique barriers to care and improving outcomes across diverse settings.
The meeting also provided an opportunity to connect with PQC teams from across the country, exchange ideas, and strengthen relationships that support this work nationwide. WAPC was especially grateful for the thoughtful gift from our colleagues at the Virginia PQC.
WAPC returned from the meeting energized and excited for the work ahead, including continued implementation of Levels of Care, the Mental Health Community of Learning, and the upcoming Sprint on Obstetric Hemorrhage. We are grateful to all of the partners, providers, and teams working alongside us to advance high-quality, equitable perinatal care throughout Wisconsin and beyond.
