When it comes to newborn mortality, the United States now has the second worst rate in the developed world. This is in spite of the fact that we spend far more on maternity and newborn care than any other country.

The good news is that we have the research and resources to continue to improve birth outcomes.

The Mid-Columbia Birth Network is a coalition of local independent professionals with concern for the care and well-being of local mothers, babies and families. Our mission is to promote an evidence-based wellness model of maternity care that will improve birth outcomes and substantially reduce costs in the greater Tri-Cities, Washington area.

We:

• Endorse CIMS’ Mother-Friendly Childbirth Initiative;
• Endorse Lamaze International’s Six Care Practices that Support Normal Birth;
• Endorse UNICEF/WHO’s Baby Friendly Initiative;
• Provide support, education and evidence-based information about birth for parents;
• Serve as a resource for parents to find local birth professionals whose practices can be utilized to support their needs in birth; and
• Recognize that women and families are individuals, their needs and desires for birth are important, and when presented with solid, balanced evidence they will make the right decisions for their unique situation.