Compared to mothers in other wealthy countries, U.S. mothers have the highest rates of death from pregnancy-related complications. Furthermore, Black mothers are three to four times more likely to die from a pregnancy-related complication than white mothers. In Kentucky- data from 2018 shows the mortality rate for Black patients is at 42.1 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births, versus 17.2 maternal deaths for white patients.

Maternal mortality is a key indicator of a state’s health and has a long-term impact on other related health factors such as infant mortality. Finding ways to improve maternal health outcomes and reduce the disparities among them, is crucial to progressing the health of Kentucky.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify the disparities in maternal health outcomes

2. Recognize what contributes to such disparities

3. Understand what is being done in Kentucky to help mothers stay healthy

Panelists:

• Rachel M. Saunders, MD
  Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kentucky Healthcare

• Rep. McKenzie Cantrell
  (D) District 38, Kentucky House of Representatives

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