Vice President Kamala Harris joined Dr. Jackie Walters in a recent episode of “Married To Medicine” to shed light on the critical issues surrounding maternal healthcare in the United States.
Harris passionately called for the remaining states to sign on to her initiative, expanding postpartum care under Medicaid to 12 months.
The vice president emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating:
“In one of the wealthiest countries in the world, the United States of America, we have the highest rates of maternal mortality, that Black women in our country, in this era are three times more likely to die in connection with childbirth. I think it’s inexcusable.”
Harris urged states to expand Medicaid coverage, emphasizing that mothers are entitled to Medicaid coverage for up to 12 months of postpartum care.
This aligns with her 2021 call for states to extend Medicaid postpartum healthcare benefits from two months to a year.
The Biden-Harris administration has been actively addressing the maternal health crisis, with a focus on the stark disparities faced by Black and Native American women. A White House Blueprint for Addressing The Maternal Health Crisis was launched in 2022, outlining actionable items for various governmental agencies to tackle the issue and create more equitable outcomes.
In recent developments, a roundtable discussion led by Domestic Policy Advisor Kristine Lucius and Domestic Policy Council Director Neera Tandem unveiled new initiatives.
These include the creation of a Transforming Maternal Health Model by the Centers For Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), designed to support state Medicaid agencies in adopting a holistic approach to pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care.
Furthermore, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced initiatives to improve maternal mortality and morbidity through a data-driven approach. HHS will collaborate with states, offering support in utilizing data and organizational change to reduce postpartum deaths.
Vice President Kamala Harris has many months been a strong advocate for positive change in maternal healthcare, pushing for comprehensive reforms and equitable access to care for all mothers across the nation.
