Summary
Strategic Issue 1
Wider determinants of health, such as obesity, smoking, drug and alcohol use and mental health significantly impact infant mortality in Hartlepool.
What needs to be done
Ensure maternity services have direct and robust pathways into local health services. Care for women at risk should be closely monitored throughout pregnancy, especially those at increased risk, including those under 20 years of age, women within the criminal justice system, and those of Black, Asian or other ethnic minorities.
Strategic Issue 2
Data indicates a decline in outcomes and highlights potential gaps in early years and maternity services. Elevated neonatal and postnatal mortality rates point to systemic challenges in care provision, particularly affecting vulnerable infants.
What needs to be done
Data continued to be monitored for changes in trends and gaps in services to be identified. Increase service provision for high-risk pregnancies locally, to reduce the need for travel out of area for those who need support.
Strategic Issue 3
Risks have been identified regarding increases in teenage pregnancy, low birthrates, low birth weights and babies not being breastfed.
What needs to be done
A focus on prevention amongst young women, with increased education regarding sexual health, breastfeeding, wider determinants of health and risk factors during pregnancy.