Urgent Call for Enhanced Maternal & Infant Health Care in Idaho

TL/DR –

Infant mortality in Idaho increased by 18%, and maternal mortality by 121.5%, from 2019 to 2021, according to the Idaho Maternal and Infant Health Report published by Idaho Kids Covered. The report highlights that Idaho has not improved on key health indicators such as maternal and infant mortality, postpartum depression, and access to prenatal care; in fact, the state is the only one without a Maternal Mortality Review Committee and does not extend Medicaid postpartum coverage beyond 60 days. The report also found that 85% of Idaho children missed doctor-recommended developmental screenings in 2021, and suggested measures such as increasing income eligibility levels for maternal and child coverage, extending Medicaid postpartum coverage to a full year, and reinstating the Maternal Mortality Review Committee to address the health crisis.

Surge in Infant and Maternal Mortality Rates in Idaho

Idaho witnessed an alarming increase in infant and maternal mortality rates, according to the Idaho Maternal and Infant Health Report 2023 published by the health promotion group, Idaho Kids Covered. Infant deaths escalated by 18% and maternal mortality soared by 121.5% from 2019 to 2021. The report reveals a disturbing deterioration in the state’s health metrics, signifying an urgent need to enhance healthcare services for mothers and infants.

Key Health Indicators in Idaho

Idaho’s healthcare scenario is concerning, with deteriorating key health indicators including mortality amongst mothers and infants, postpartum depression, premature and low birth weight babies, and access to prenatal care. Alarmingly, 56% of pregnancy-related deaths in 2021 happened between 43 and 365 days post-birth, and 25% of Idaho mothers went through moderate to severe postpartum depression in the subsequent three months, almost double the national average. Idaho is ranked last in the nation for Medicaid eligibility criteria for pregnant and postpartum women and is the only state without a Maternal Mortality Review Committee.

Healthcare and Access for Children in Idaho

Healthcare access for children in Idaho is equally concerning. The state ranks second last in the United States in providing affordable health insurance for children. According to the report, 85% of Idaho children missed doctor-recommended developmental screenings in 2021. Furthermore, Idaho houses 28,400 uninsured children, most of whom come from families earning just above the income limits. The rising costs of everyday expenses are making it challenging for Idaho families to meet ends.

Addressing Health Needs in Idaho

As the maternal and child health needs in Idaho grow, it is critical for policymakers to advance policies ensuring steady health coverage and dependable access to care. There is a flicker of hope that Idaho’s Department of Health and Welfare, which has requested funds to implement 12 months postpartum Medicaid coverage, will address this issue. However, it’s just the first step, with many more challenges to overcome.

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