State Rep. Phil Green today welcomed an organization actively helping to ensure better health outcomes for people across areas he represents in the Michigan House.

The SOS Maternity Network started in 2020 with a group of 14 health care institutions serving communities, expectant mothers and newborns in a variety of ways. The program increases access to prenatal care through transportation to and from pregnancy-related appointments, provides resources and educational materials to mothers-to-be, and helps standardize best practices and treatments for Michigan physicians.

Hurley Medical Center and McLaren Flint have become partners with SOS Maternity, which is based at Wayne State University. Hurley Medical Center recently enrolled the 2,000^th expectant mother in the history of the program.

“I am thrilled to have SOS Maternity expand into Flint and Lapeer,” said Green, who represents the city of Lapeer and several townships in Genesee and Lapeer counties as part of the 67^th House District. “Ensuring that pregnant moms and babies get the best care through ensuring best practices in prenatal care is one of my top priorities, especially in the rural areas of Michigan. I would like to express a hearty ‘welcome’ to SOS Maternity.”

Data provided by SOS Maternity disclosed that member health institutions oversee more than 50,000 deliveries per year in Michigan. The United States reported a maternal mortality rate of nearly 18 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2024, which is far higher than other developed countries. In addition, the state’s infant mortality rate surpassed the national average in 2024.

PHOTO INFORMATION: State Rep. Phil Green (far right) helped welcome SOS Maternity Network to the greater Lapeer and Genesee County area at an event on Monday, April 13.