Simulation training helps care teams prepare for rare, high-risk events by allowing them to practice clinical decision-making and collaboration in a safe environment. Through an equipment grant distributed by the MHA Keystone Center with funding support from UnitedHealthcare, MyMichigan Health is strengthening hands-on learning to improve readiness for rare but life-threatening maternal emergencies.
Using MamaBirthie simulators provided through the grant, MyMichigan Health recently partnered with Maternal 911 to host a training focused on responding to Amniotic Fluid Embolism (AFE). The session brought together nurses, midwives and physicians from its Midland and Alma birthing units to practice rapid, coordinated response strategies, including an OB zone approach that clarifies team roles to ensure critical steps are not missed during high-risk events.
“These simulations give us the chance to practice responding to uncommon complications we hope never happen, but need to be prepared for,” said Tonia Vanwieren B.S.N., R.N., system nursing director of maternal child and women’s health, MyMichigan Health. “Having the equipment and time to train together builds confidence and helps us respond quicker when every second matters when an emergency arises.”
The MHA Keystone Center works alongside the Michigan Alliance for Innovation (MI AIM) on Maternal Health to equip Michigan birthing hospitals with practical tools that strengthen clinical readiness, build confident care teams and improve outcomes for mothers and babies across Michigan.
Members with questions about MI AIM or other maternal health quality improvement offerings should reach out to Naomi Rosner at the MHA Keystone Center. For more information and hospital stories, check out the 2025 Community Impact Report. Members with questions may contact Lucy Ciaramitaro at the MHA.