Attempts to Keep Maternity Wards Open are Failing

Access to obstetric care is disappearing nationwide and rapidly changing state health care policies are not working. A new study from the University of Minnesota finds declining access to maternal healthcare from 2018 to 2022, with rural communities being hit the hardest. Researchers have noticed that, despite the increased policy conversations that have surrounded maternal healthcare in the last ten years, we’re still seeing increased closures. This lack of access to care can cause at times fatal complications for both the baby and the mother. Our Health Equity advocates for policies that ensure that all Americans have access to the vital maternal healthcare they need. Read more here.