The Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) has named Sean C. Blackwell, M.D., maternal-fetal medicine specialist with UT Physicians and professor and chair of the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences at McGovern Medical School, its newest president.
Dr. Blackwell officially assumed the position Feb. 3 and will oversee guidelines and policies that will be used in the care of pregnant women facing various maternal and fetal conditions across the world. His responsibilities include setting policies in obstetrical care, advocating for clinical practice, education, and research in obstetrics, and directing other advocacy efforts and education initiatives. Dr. Blackwell previously served as vice chair for the SMFM Publications Committee and as vice president for the SMFM Board of Directors.
Established in 1977, the SMFM is the premiere membership organization for maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) specialists and represents the interests in nearly 3,000 physicians and MFM practice professionals. The organization provides in-person and online educational opportunities for physicians and MFM practice professionals, interacts with members of Congress and federal agencies to advocate for MFM specialists, and develops a variety of publications.
Dr. Blackwell has served as chair of the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences since 2012. He holds a strong clinical background in maternal-fetal medicine and has clinical and scientific expertise in preterm birth, medical complications of pregnancy, the role of obesity in pregnancy outcomes, pregnancy in women with physical disabilities, fetal brain injury, and shoulder Dystocia.
