Resolving America’s Black Maternal Health Crisis Now

Black women face a significantly higher risk of death in pregnancy-related circumstances than their white counterparts. This alarming discrepancy in maternal health outcomes holds true regardless of income or education levels and is characterized by a higher likelihood of severe complications during pregnancy.

Understanding the Black Maternal Health Crisis

The root causes of these health disparities are complex, stemming from long-standing societal racism. However, although solutions to these systemic issues may be slow in coming, immediate steps can be taken by healthcare leaders and policymakers to improve Black maternal health.

Several key factors drive the Black maternal health crisis, such as lower quality healthcare for Black patients, increased rates of uninsured individuals within the Black community, and higher rates of unmet social health needs compared to other racial groups.

Initiatives to Improve Care for Black Mothers

Healthcare organizations can take immediate action by focusing on the quality and accessibility of care. Kaiser Permanente’s obstetric hypertension program, for instance, targets hypertension, a major cause of pregnancy-related death that disproportionately affects Black mothers. This innovative program combines in-person prenatal visits with remote patient monitoring, using home-based blood pressure checks and electronic health records.

The program has been particularly beneficial for those struggling with transportation issues, a problem more prevalent among Black patients. By expanding such initiatives, we can help at-risk populations avoid potentially life-threatening complications and improve overall maternal health.

Policy Changes for Black Maternal Health

At the policy level, addressing insurance coverage, care access, and social health needs are crucial. Policymakers can take several actions to improve Black maternal health, such as expanding Medicaid coverage, enhancing access to telehealth and virtual care, and addressing unmet social health needs. Acts like the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act can provide resources for these pressing needs and help diversify the healthcare workforce. It’s vital to take collective action to address these disparities in Black maternal health.