Georgia Advocates Call for Maternal Health Equity

Advocates nationwide convened on January 14 to address disparities in maternal health care for women of color, highlighting systemic failures that contribute to higher maternal mortality rates. The Los Angeles-based group 4Kira4Moms emphasized the urgent need for reform, particularly at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, where instances of racial bias in care have been reported. Meanwhile, Arkansas faces a maternal health crisis, with alarming statistics, including a maternal mortality ranking among the worst in the nation and significant gaps in postpartum care. Central Arkansas showcases innovative programs aimed at improving maternal health, though challenges persist, particularly for rural and communities of color. In Georgia, proposed changes to Medicaid contracts threaten to exacerbate disparities, as Black women are disproportionately affected by high maternal mortality rates. Stakeholders stress the importance of maintaining established care networks to ensure equitable health outcomes for pregnant women.