Using Geographical Information Systems to facilitate an infant mortality reduction initiative

The Genesee County REACH 2010 and REACH US initiatives focus on reducing disparities in perinatal health and infant mortality in Genesee County, MI. These initiatives follow Community Based Public Health principles and entail partnerships between the local health infrastructure, community based organizations, and universities. Vital statistics data indicate a substantial drop in African American infant mortality in Genesee County in 2005. The African American infant mortality rate for 2006 and projected rate for 2007 remain lower than in years prior to intervention activities. Efforts continue in the hopes of maintaining improvements in perinatal health outcomes. The partnership is conducting a thorough surveillance of perinatal health in the years before and during the intervention period. Trends are examined in indicators of maternal health care adequacy, risk behaviors, infant health outcomes, and causes of infant mortality. Geographic analyses indicate spatial clustering of African American infant mortality incidence in the northern sections of Flint. To further understand spatial trends in factors related to African American infant mortality, we are using Geographical Information Systems to spatially map trends in maternal health care adequacy, risk behaviors, infant health outcomes, and causes of infant mortality. Vital statistics data provided by the Michigan Department of Community Health include specific address locations, although all maps presented display aggregate data so individuals are not identified. We are using maps of these indicators to facilitate community needs assessment, program planning, and to assess the impact of geographically focused infant mortality reduction initiatives.