Story perspectives

U.S. Maternal Health Crisis: Care Deserts Worsen Mortality Rates

10/23/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The United States faces a maternal health crisis with highest maternal mortality rate among wealthy nations.
A 2025 report shows nearly half of U.S. counties lack obstetricians, midwives, or birthing facilities, creating 'maternity care deserts'.
Dr. Tiffany A. Moore Simas says decades of underfunding and undervaluing women's health have driven shortages and closures.
Risks to Medicaid funding and reproductive rights could worsen maternal mortality, especially in states limiting reproductive choices.

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Story summary

The United States faces a maternal health crisis with highest maternal mortality rate among wealthy nations.
A 2025 report shows nearly half of U.S. counties lack obstetricians, midwives, or birthing facilities, creating 'maternity care deserts'.
Dr. Tiffany A. Moore Simas says decades of underfunding and undervaluing women's health have driven shortages and closures.
Risks to Medicaid funding and reproductive rights could worsen maternal mortality, especially in states limiting reproductive choices.