Arkansas seeks answers to high maternal mortality rates
Arkansas’ Maternal Death Rate: A Call to Action
During a captivating roundtable discussion on maternal health in Arkansas, it was revealed that the state’s maternal death rate is nearly double the national average. This alarming statistic has prompted influential figures such as Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, U.S. Sen. John Boozman, U.S. Rep. French Hill, and medical professionals to come together and address the challenges faced by expectant mothers in the state.
Cam Patterson, the chancellor of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, emphasized the severity of the issue, stating, “Nationally, 24 women out of 100,000 die during or immediately after childbirth. In the state of Arkansas, that number is almost double, and the rates of maternal mortality are particularly high in the Spanish communities across our state. Unfortunately, this is a problem that’s getting worse and not better. Over 60% of hospitals in the state of Arkansas no longer provide labor and delivery services, and that means that moms, expectant moms, have to travel for prenatal care and often go without. The good news is that we are committed to making a change.”
William Greenfield, an OBGYN at the UAMS Women’s Center, revealed the shocking statistic that Arkansas witnessed 100 pregnancy-related deaths between 2018 and 2020, with a staggering 92% of them being preventable.
Gov. Sanders stressed the importance of not solely focusing on the nine months of pregnancy but rather prioritizing the overall health of women in Arkansas. She acknowledged that this issue has been overlooked for far too long and highlighted the significance of addressing predetermined high-risk individuals to prevent complications during pregnancy. “We know that healthier women make healthier moms and have healthier babies,” she added.
Another crucial aspect that needs attention is educating women about the necessity of prenatal care. Shockingly, one in 35 women in Arkansas do not see a doctor until they are in labor. Gov. Sanders emphasized the need for better education on prenatal care, stating, “We need to do a much better job as a state, not just defining prenatal care which is absolutely critical, but then educating moms on how important prenatal care is. That’s one of the things that I think will make a big difference in the long-term outcomes.”
The panel also addressed various other maternal issues, including breastfeeding education, the role of fathers, increasing the number of nurse midwives, and Arkansas’ alarmingly high teen pregnancy rate, which is the second-highest in the country, only surpassed by Mississippi.
The ultimate goal of this discussion was to shed light on ways in which the state can improve its maternal and fetal outcomes. Gov. Sanders expressed her satisfaction with the level of engagement from all stakeholders and revealed that a comprehensive statewide plan is being developed to specifically address maternal health in Arkansas. This discussion marks a significant first step towards positive change.
What are the main factors contributing to Arkansas’ high maternal death rate, particularly in rural areas?
S is that we have acknowledged the issue and are now taking steps to address it.
One of the key factors contributing to Arkansas’ high maternal death rate is the lack of access to quality healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Many expectant mothers are forced to travel long distances to receive prenatal care and often face challenges in accessing timely medical interventions during childbirth. This lack of access to healthcare services undoubtedly puts them at a higher risk of complications and ultimately, maternal mortality.
To tackle this issue, Governor Sanders has called for increased funding and support for healthcare providers in rural areas. This includes initiatives to establish more obstetric care units and attract more medical professionals to rural communities. By improving access to care, we can significantly decrease the maternal mortality rate and ensure that every expectant mother receives the necessary medical attention.
Additionally, U.S. Senator Boozman has been a vocal advocate for expanding Medicaid coverage in Arkansas. By extending coverage to low-income pregnant women, we can ensure that they have access to affordable and comprehensive prenatal care. This would not only reduce the financial burden on expectant mothers but also enhance their overall well-being and increase the likelihood of positive birth outcomes.
Moreover, U.S. Representative Hill has been working towards implementing comprehensive maternal health policies and programs. This includes advocating for legislation that promotes evidence-based practices, supports medical research, and offers educational resources to healthcare professionals. By investing in research and education, we can improve the quality of care provided to expectant mothers and make significant strides in reducing the maternal death rate.
Medical professionals are also playing a pivotal role in addressing Arkansas’ maternal death rate. They are actively working towards implementing best practices, enhancing care coordination, and improving the overall quality of care provided to expectant mothers. By prioritizing the safety and well-being of their patients, medical professionals are striving to ensure that no mother in Arkansas loses her life due to preventable causes during childbirth.
Indeed, the alarmingly high maternal death rate in Arkansas is a cause for great concern. However, the collective efforts of influential figures, policymakers, and medical professionals give us hope for a brighter future. By addressing the challenges faced by expectant mothers, improving access to healthcare, and implementing evidence-based practices, we can effectively reduce the maternal death rate and ensure safer pregnancies and childbirth experiences for all women in Arkansas.
As citizens, it is crucial that we support these efforts by actively engaging with our elected officials, spreading awareness about the issue, and being advocates for change. Together, we can make a difference and create a future where no mother needlessly loses her life during one of the most joyous moments of her life. Let us answer this call to action and work towards a safer and healthier Arkansas for all.
" Conservative News Daily does not always share or support the views and opinions expressed here; they are just those of the writer."
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
