In each edition we delve into the minds of those who are redefining the boundaries of health. Our goal is to share the insights and stories of those leading the way to achieve the highest attainable standard of health for everyone.

In this edition I have been speaking with Maggie Huether and Traci Quillen, Co-Founders of FemBridge, addressing the inequalities in maternal health.

How big is the problem around health inequality?

Health inequality is massive, reaching far and wide across the globe. It’s not just about differences in health outcomes or access to healthcare, it’s about how factors like where you live, your income, race, or education level can determine your health. In both developed and developing countries, there are people facing serious health issues simply because they can’t access the care they need or because they’re living in unhealthy conditions. The economic toll from health disparities cost societies a lot, from lost productivity to higher healthcare spending.

But it’s not just about the numbers. Health inequality is deeply intertwined with other inequalities like race, gender, and disability discrimination. And it’s not just about healthcare, it’s also about addressing the root causes like poverty, education, and living conditions. Imagine the impact we could have if governments, healthcare providers, communities, and others worked together to ensure everyone has a fair shot at good health. It’s not just about treating illnesses; it’s about being preventative and building a healthier, more equitable world for everyone.

Please could you tell us about FemBridge and how it is bridging the gap in health equality?

FemBridge is a female-owned company dedicated to improving women’s healthcare by bridging the gap in maternal health and empowering underserved communities. Our passion and mission are focused on fostering accessible and equitable healthcare solutions that aim to ensure that every woman, regardless of her circumstances, has unimpeded access to essential maternal healthcare access, technology and bandwidth to access telehealth services, clinical education and coordination of social resources. Through innovation, advocacy, and collaboration, we strive to break down barriers, and elevate standards of health and well-being. We have created a very comprehensive and scalable technology and services solution profile. 80% of a person’s health is determined by their zip code, where they live. We bridge the gap for mothers and their families by screening for technology access and drivers of health insecurities, home monitoring for pregnancy related conditions, dedicated clinical coaches, Doulas and mental health solutions for each women’s unique pregnancy journey, postpartum through pregnancy.

What has been the biggest challenge you have faced and are facing when trying to achieve your mission?

One of the most significant challenges we have found is navigating the complex healthcare landscape, which is governed by a myriad of regulations, insurance structures, and diverse healthcare models. Our mission to enhance women’s healthcare and close the gap in maternal health requires us at times to operate within these frameworks, which can be intricate and sometimes limiting. Additionally, tackling health disparities and introducing innovative solutions means confronting deeply rooted systemic issues and resistance to change within the healthcare sector. Overcoming these challenges demands not only creativity and perseverance but also strategic engagement with policymakers, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders to drive meaningful progress towards our goals.

I know you are partnering with HeraMed, please could you tell us about partnerships and how you are working with others to address the challenge?

When we founded FemBridge, we carefully assessed various technology platforms to serve as the hub for the service solutions we provide. Among them, HeraMED stood out as a leading medical data and technology company driving the digital transformation of maternity care. The HeraCARE platform offers complete remote patient monitoring for pregnancy and postpartum care, encompassing both maternal and fetal monitoring. We were impressed by its intuitive design for patients and its wealth of data for healthcare providers. Our SDoH, clinical coaching, Doula Services, Behavioral health screening and treatment are all delivered via the platform making FemBridge powered by HeraMED a truly unique program in the US market. Leveraging this platform, FemBridge integrates our Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) initiatives, clinical coaching, Doula Services, and behavioural screening and treatment, making FemBridge powered by HeraMED a truly unique program in the U.S. market. With this synergy in mind, FemBridge and HeraMED recently forged a partnership in the United States. We’re incredibly excited about the possibilities this collaboration offers, as it allows us to deliver comprehensive solutions aimed at improving maternal mortality rates, enhancing access to care, and providing invaluable clinical insights to support healthcare providers in their services.

Please can you tell us about your business model and how you have incorporated your offering into the healthcare system in the USA.

At FemBridge, we collaborate closely with hospitals, providers, payors, and employer groups to support and enhance their maternal health initiatives. Our approach isn’t about a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, we take a consultative approach with each client, striving to understand their existing programs and where there may be gaps in care. We tailor our services to align with the unique needs of every community we serve, ensuring that our programs culturally and socially resonate with patients. By working hand-in-hand with our clients, we aim to augment their existing efforts effectively, ultimately enhancing maternal health outcomes and accessibility to care.

Please tell us an interesting fact about yourselves.

Traci Quillen, Co-Founder: I’m a mom of three lively girls, and proud to say that I am a cheer and volleyball mom through and through!   We love traveling as a family, any outdoor activity and are actively involved as volunteers with a local Great Pyrenees rescue.  I am a passionate advocate for women’s health and equitable resources.

Maggie Huether, Co-Founder: I am an avid college football fan (both of my children graduated from SEC Universities), enjoy pickleball, sports, and spending time with my husband, adult children, family and friends.  The beach is my happy place. Dogs are my absolute favourite and my husband and I enjoy volunteering at a no-kill animal shelter every week.  Underserved communities and women’s health rights are my passion.