Local Public Health Nurse Consultant (LPHNC) Program
UMass Marieb College of Nursing
Anne Mistivar, DNP-HSIL MSN RN LNC WMBNA Member
LPHNC/Western Region
Chassea Robinson, MSN RN MPH CPH CLC
LPHNC/Northeast Region

A community-centered approach to maternal health is more important than ever. Massachusetts continues to experience persistent disparities in maternal morbidity and infant outcomes, with families of color disproportionately affected (MA DPH, 2024). For many expectant mothers, particularly Black, Brown, and immigrant women, culturally grounded support systems play a crucial role in bridging gaps created by limited access to care, language barriers, healthcare mistrust, or systemic inequities. Community partners such as faith groups, cultural organizations, doulas, and local Public Health Nurses (PHNs) help families navigate pregnancy and postpartum needs with dignity, trust, and shared understanding.
There is at least one PHN in almost every Health Department throughout Massachusetts, and each PHN is an expert in their community resources. Any parent or resident can contact their local PHN by calling their town or city health department, visiting the department’s website, or asking municipal staff to be connected to the public health nurse. PHNs are available to answer health-related questions and help residents find resources such as diapers, food, infant feeding support, playgroups, or mental health support. PHNs also support community groups who support women and families through advocating for their programs, collaborating on projects, and partnering around shared goals. By working closely with community-based organizations, PHNs support mothers and birthing people where they live, learn, work, and gather, strengthening health literacy, reducing isolation, and fostering respectful, informed communication with the healthcare system. In short, call your local PHN today!
Ways to Communicate with Your Healthcare Provider
Practical tips for expecting and new parents
Before Your Appointment or Phone Call
● Write down your questions or concerns. Use a notebook, your phone, or a piece of paper. You can write in your own language; you have the right to a professional medical interpreter, and provider staff can arrange language support if needed.
● Bring any symptoms, changes, or worries you’ve noticed. No concern is too small during pregnancy or after birth.
During the Visit
● Bring a support person. This may be a partner, family member, friend, doula, or trusted community member.
● Use your list of questions. Do not hesitate to pull it out; you deserve answers.
● Ask clarifying questions when you don’t understand a term or recommendation.
● Summarize before you leave to confirm your understanding.
● Review the visit afterward with your support person.
When Communicating by Phone
● Have a support person with you. Use speakerphones and notify staff that someone is listening for support.
● Get the name of the person you speak with to help build continuity.
● Ask for information to be repeated or clarified.
● Summarize the conversation before ending the call.
● Ask when you should expect a call back.
Pregnancy and the postpartum period are not experienced in isolation; they unfold within families, cultures, and communities that profoundly shape health outcomes. As this article illustrates, community-centered maternal and child health approaches are essential to addressing persistent inequities and ensuring that families receive respectful, culturally responsive support. ■