In May 2024, a dedicated group from Kaiser Roseville Medical Center, including a KP midwife, two KP physicians, Jenna Ricks-Cosens, MSN, RN, PHN, and Jane Jach, MSN, RN, PHN, RNC-OB, EBP-C, traveled to Sierra Leone to train local healthcare providers.
The team was led by Joanie Seacrist, CNM, a certified nurse midwife from Roseville and founder of Hawa’s Hope, an organization dedicated to improving maternal health in Sierra Leone, which has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in West Africa. Sponsored by nurse leaders at Roseville Medical Center, the team provided expert training through lectures, hands-on skills, and simulation exercises at midwifery schools. Topics covered included team communication, how to protect the health of an expectant mom, and managing complications during pregnancy and childbirth. Initially, the team planned to reach 200 participants, but the response exceeded expectations, drawing nearly 300 attendees, including physician residents. Pre- and post-workshop tests showed a 13.6% increase in knowledge, reflecting the success of the initiative in enhancing maternal care and safety.