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Improving Outcomes in Maternity Care: The Need for Clinical Excellence
Maternal health outcomes in the United States are a growing concern. According to the World Health Organization (2015), the maternal mortality ratio more than doubled from 12 to 28 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births between 1990 and 2013. This translates to approximately 1,200 women dying each year due to pregnancy-related complications, and nearly 60,000 women experiencing severe, life-threatening complications. Alarmingly, it is estimated that at least half of these maternal deaths were preventable. A woman in the United States is also three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than women in many other high-income countries, including Germany and Japan (Kassebaum et al., The Lancet, 2014).
AACI’s Commitment to Excellence in Maternity Care
AACI provides global expertise in developing healthcare standards that reflect international best practices and drive quality improvement in clinical care. Our goal is to support healthcare systems by sharing knowledge, leveraging the expertise of practitioners, and promoting measurable, innovative solutions that lead to safer, higher-quality care.
To support maternity units worldwide, AACI has developed the Clinical Excellence Standard for Maternity Services, a comprehensive framework designed to elevate the quality, safety, and consistency of maternal care. These standards are closely aligned with the latest clinical evidence and international best practices, and are informed by AACI’s extensive experience conducting surveys across diverse healthcare facilities globally.
A Structured Framework for Maternity Care Excellence
The AACI Clinical Excellence Standard for Maternity Services is built around two strategic modules:
- Clinical Governance
- Clinical Maternity Practice
These modules guide the planning, delivery, and evaluation of both obstetric and support services, ensuring that maternity units apply a disciplined management system alongside evidence-based clinical best practices.
This integrated approach positions AACI Clinical Excellence Certification as a unique, high-impact program that goes beyond compliance—helping organizations proactively improve patient safety, experience, and outcomes in maternal and new-born care.
Mark of Excellence Maternity Services
Meeting AACI Clinical Excellence Standards is an accomplishment recognized by the awarding of AACI’s Platinum Medal of Certification.
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