The Sunshine Mama Podcast is where ancient wisdom meets modern birth, hosted by Melissa Mitchell, a certified perinatal educator, birth and postpartum doula, and Reiki master. Episode 2, Changes Ahead for Moms and Babies – What HHS Restructuring Means for You, dives into the implications of the newly formed Administration for a Healthy America (AHA) on maternal healthcare delivery across the United States. Melissa explores the systemic challenges in maternal and infant health, the impact of HHS restructuring, and how moms can navigate these changes to advocate for themselves and their families.

This episode highlights:

• The restructuring of HHS under President Trump’s "Department of Government Efficiency" initiative, which consolidates divisions, reduces regional offices, and cuts the workforce by 25%.
• The creation of the Administration for a Healthy America (AHA), tasked with overseeing maternal and child health programs, HIV/AIDS care, mental health support, and environmental health initiatives.
• A holistic approach to maternal care that integrates chronic disease prevention, environmental health factors, and support for vulnerable families.
• Practical advice for moms to stay informed, advocate for their care, and access community resources during this transitional period.

Melissa also shares insights into systemic injustice in maternal healthcare and discusses how these changes could reshape outcomes for moms and babies. With a focus on empowering women to take control of their birth experiences, this episode encourages listeners to embrace advocacy and education as tools for change.

The episode concludes with a book highlight: The Women Who Caught the Babies: A Story of African American Midwives by Eloise Greenfield.

Tags

• Maternal Health
• Infant Care
• Administration for a Healthy America
• HHS Restructuring
• Birth Advocacy
• Postpartum Support
• Environmental Health
• Chronic Disease Prevention
• Community Resources
• Maternal Mortality
• Midwifery
• Public Health Policy
• Women’s Health Equity
• Breastfeeding Education

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