HANCOCK, ISHPEMING, MARQUETTE (Aug. 4, 2025) — UP Health System is proud to announce the launch of the Special Delivery program, an initiative aimed at improving postpartum care and reducing maternal mortality. This innovative program provides postpartum patients with wristbands to wear for six weeks after delivery, helping ensure they receive timely and appropriate care for any potential complications.

The Special Delivery program reflects UP Health System’s commitment to advancing maternal health by prioritizing early intervention and raising awareness about the risks associated with the postpartum period. The wristbands act as a visible reminder for patients, families and health care providers to remain vigilant about postpartum health during this critical time.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2022, the U.S. maternal mortality rate was 22.3 deaths per 100,000 live births — significantly higher than rates in other high-income countries. Alarmingly, the maternal mortality rate for Black women in the U.S. was even higher at 69.9 deaths per 100,000 live births.

Many postpartum complications — such as anemia, hypertension, heart conditions and infections — occur days or weeks after delivery, and 53% of pregnancy-related deaths happen between 7 and 365 days postpartum. The Special Delivery program seeks to change this by empowering patients to advocate for their health and helping ensure providers are aware of recent deliveries when diagnosing and treating postpartum individuals.

“The Special Delivery program is a meaningful step forward in supporting postpartum health,” said Tonya Darner, chief executive officer. “By providing tools for early identification of potential complications and encouraging community awareness, we are enhancing care during a critical time. This program underscores our dedication to improving health outcomes and ensuring that every postpartum individual has the resources and support they need.”

As part of the program, postpartum patients will be given a Special Delivery wristband before leaving the hospital. This discreet but effective tool helps identify postpartum patients and ensures health care providers are aware of recent pregnancies, reducing the risk of misdiagnosis.

In addition to wearing the wristband, families, friends and community members are encouraged to check in on patients who have recently delivered. If you see someone wearing a Special Delivery wristband, take a moment to ask how they are feeling and encourage them to seek medical care if they express concerns about their health.

UP Health System invites the community to help raise awareness about postpartum health and support individuals during this critical time. For more information on the Special Delivery program, including warning signs to watch for, visit UPHealthSystem.com/Special-Delivery.

The Special Delivery program is not intended to replace postpartum provider visits but to serve as an additional tool to support patients as part of their overall care plan. Attending scheduled postpartum appointments remains essential for recovery and for addressing any concerns directly with a health care provider.