Community Hospital-Fairfax was recognized as a Missouri AIM Star by the Missouri Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health. The recognition signifies the hospital’s completion of the organization’s Severe Hypertension in Pregnancy Collaborative. Hypertension, known as high blood pressure, can have a devastating effect on a mother and baby. Preeclampsia, a condition signaled by high blood pressure, is the leading cause of maternal mortality – occurring in one in every 25 pregnancies.

The MO AIM initiative launched in 2019 to support hospitals’ implementation of evidence-based practices to improve the rapid treatment of high blood pressure and ensure timely follow-up care after delivery. Hospitals within the collaborative participated in education and training, policy development, and data reporting, while increasing patient and family education on the reportable signs and symptoms of high blood pressure in pregnancy.

“The evidence is clear  –  early intervention for hypertension can save the lives of a mother and child,” said Jon D. Doolittle, Missouri Hospital Association President and CEO. “AIM’s Severe Hypertension in Pregnancy Collaborative is a powerful tool in efforts to reduce maternal and child harm in Missouri. These hospitals are making a difference for their patients.”

“Our obstetrical nursing team, along with Aron Burke, M.D., has worked diligently to meet the objectives of this program including educating our patients about hypertension and its impact on both the mother and baby’s health. We are grateful for their ongoing commitment to safe, high quality obstetrical care,” explained Chief Nursing Officer, Samantha Grist, R.N.

During the two-year program, 25 hospitals met the criteria for successful implementation.