Story perspectives

Tribal Leaders Demand Improved Maternal Care Amid Crisis

1/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Rhonda Swaney, a member of Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT), experienced a stillbirth in Ronan, Montana, highlighting inadequate Native maternal care.
Native communities face high maternal mortality, prompting efforts to boost tribal participation in review committees.
Cindy Gamble, a Tlingit health consultant, says solutions must be tailored to each tribe.
Challenges include maternity care deserts and Medicaid cuts, while the federal government must provide tribal healthcare.

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Story summary

Rhonda Swaney, a member of Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT), experienced a stillbirth in Ronan, Montana, highlighting inadequate Native maternal care.
Native communities face high maternal mortality, prompting efforts to boost tribal participation in review committees.
Cindy Gamble, a Tlingit health consultant, says solutions must be tailored to each tribe.
Challenges include maternity care deserts and Medicaid cuts, while the federal government must provide tribal healthcare.