Kansas and India Address Maternal Health Crisis

A recent consultation in rural Telangana, India, focused on maternal mental health and the lack of services available, highlighting the need for community support and early intervention. In Kansas, officials are seeking federal funding to transform maternity care deserts into accessible healthcare areas. A report from March of Dimes reveals a maternity health crisis in the U.S., where 1 in 3 counties lack an obstetric clinician, exacerbated by workforce shortages and hospital closures of obstetric units. Family physicians are stepping in as a crucial alternative in rural areas, where they provide maternity care in the absence of obstetricians. The report also notes the ongoing impact of the Supreme Court's Dobbs decision on obstetric care training and availability. In the Midwest, Avera Health showcases integrated care solutions for high-risk pregnancies, emphasizing the importance of specialized medical support for rural families.