Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a contributor to maternal mortality. Maternal health risks and experiences of violence differ for pregnant people in rural and urban communities. This presentation will explore rural–urban differences in IPV and the distinct risks faced by rural birthing people. Dr. Kozhimannil will describe research findings based on data from the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System, revealing higher rates of IPV and lower rates of abuse screening among rural residents versus those living in urban areas. 

Additionally, the presentation will focus on challenges faced by rural residents, highlighting racial inequities in IPV and describing IPV risk and screening among rural residents with Medicaid, private insurance, and those who are uninsured. Dr. Kozhimannil will share insights from key informant interviews with IPV victim advocates who support rural individuals and families. The presentation will conclude with a discussion of potential policy strategies to support the safety, hope, and healing of all birthing people, with a focus on rural communities.

Dr. Katy Backes Kozhimannil is the Distinguished McKnight University Professor in the Division of Health Policy and Management, University of Minnesota School of Public Health. She is Director of the University of Minnesota Rural Health Research Center and Co-Director of the University of Minnesota Rural Health Program. She also serves as a Senior Advisor at the Center for Antiracism Research for Health Equity. 

Dr. Kozhimannil conducts research to inform health policy that impacts critical times in the life course, including pregnancy and childbirth. The goal of her work is to contribute to the evidence base for clinical and policy strategies to advance racial, gender, and geographic equity.

Dr. Kozhimannil’s research, published in journals such as Science, the New England Journal of Medicine, JAMA, and Health Affairs, has been widely cited. Media coverage of her research, including stories by the New York Times, Washington Post, and National Public Radio, has generated dialogue and policy action at local, state, and national levels. Dr. Kozhimannil teaches courses that build skills for engagement in the policy process and works extensively with state and federal policymakers on efforts to improve the health and well-being of individuals, families, and communities, starting at birth.   

This webinar will be captioned in real time. Individuals needing reasonable accommodations should email PreventionInFocus@nih.gov. Requests should be made at least 5 business days before the event.

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