Dr. Zahra Sharifiheris, PhD, CNM, is a dedicated nurse midwife and postdoctoral fellow at the UCLA Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI). With a robust research program focused on mental health-related maternal mortality, Dr. Sharifiheris is passionate about improving health outcomes for underserved populations, particularly the Hispanic community in Southern California. Her expertise lies in predictive analytics and machine learning applications for preterm birth prediction and management.
Dr. Sharifiheris' focus also extends to maternal mental health and substance use disorders, which, according to MMRC's report, are the leading causes of maternal death. She is committed to advancing health equity through interdisciplinary collaboration, innovative health informatics, and community outreach. Her work bridges the gap between clinical practice and research, advocating for evidence-based policies and practices that promote maternal health. Dr. Sharifiheris excels in translating complex medical concepts, particularly in digital health, into accessible information, empowering healthcare providers and patients alike. She is an active member of the healthcare community, striving to drive positive change through education, research, and policy advocacy.