U.S. Faces Growing Maternity Care Crisis as Hospital Closures Increase

A recent March of Dimes report highlights the severe lack of maternity care access in the U.S., with over 5.5 million women living in counties with minimal to no maternity resources.

These “maternity care deserts” lack essential facilities like hospitals, birthing centers, and obstetric care, exacerbating the country’s already high maternal and infant mortality rates.

The report reveals that 2.3 million women of reproductive age live in these deserts, with around 150,000 births occurring in such areas annually. Additionally, more than 3 million women reside in counties with limited access to maternity care.

In these underserved regions, women face a 13% higher chance of preterm births and receive poorer prenatal care.

The report links these issues to recent legislative changes and hospital closures, which have increased travel distances for care by 2.6 times. States like North Dakota, South Dakota, and Alaska are particularly affected. To address these challenges, the report suggests expanding telehealth, improving reimbursement for obstetric services, and enhancing access to midwifery. Engaging local community organizations could also help bridge the care gap in these areas.