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In a bold move to enhance maternal health care, Vice President Kamala Harris is rallying support across the government to address a pressing issue that affects many, particularly marginalized groups. The United States holds the highest maternal mortality rate among developed nations, with Black women facing a mortality rate three times higher than their white counterparts, Indigenous women experiencing rates twice as high, and rural women 1.5 times higher. Harris is determined to change this narrative.
During Black Maternal Health Week, Harris convened with cabinet members and agency leaders to unveil her comprehensive strategy aimed at improving maternal health services, particularly for Black mothers. “This isn’t just about health care; it’s about recognizing and treating mothers as whole human beings,” she emphasized in a recent virtual meeting with parenting journalists.
Part of this initiative involves urging 11 states and the District of Columbia to extend Medicaid coverage for new mothers from the current two months to a full year, a change already adopted by Michigan. The plan also introduces hospital designations that prioritize birthing-friendly environments, helping parents identify the best care options while motivating hospitals to enhance their maternity services. Additionally, Harris plans to invest $4.5 million in community-based doulas, who play a crucial role in supporting mothers throughout the birthing process.
Harris’s advocacy for maternal health is not new; she initiated the first federal Maternal Health Day of Action last year and continues to approach the issue from multiple angles. She highlighted the necessity for collaboration across various sectors, including housing, to address the needs of pregnant individuals facing homelessness or insecure living conditions. She also pointed out the unique challenges faced by pregnant military personnel and veterans, emphasizing that the Department of Veterans Affairs has committed to researching the impact of PTSD on pregnancy.
To streamline access to information, Harris proposes creating a new federal website where pregnant individuals can easily find resources and understand their rights. “There are so many websites out there; why should a pregnant woman in public housing or on Medicaid have to navigate all of them to get her questions answered?” she questioned.
A significant focus of her initiative is addressing the racial biases that affect maternal care. Harris stressed the need for culturally competent training and research, citing the alarming reality that Black women often aren’t taken seriously in medical settings, regardless of their socioeconomic status. She referenced the experience of celebrity athlete Serena Williams, who faced life-threatening complications during childbirth and had to advocate for herself to receive proper care.
Cultural change is also essential; Harris noted that many women feel they must remain silent about their health needs. “Women should not feel judged when discussing their health and reproductive care. It is the responsibility of medical professionals to listen and respect their concerns,” she said.
Harris shared that her passion for this issue is deeply personal, influenced by her mother’s commitment to women’s health and dignity. “My awareness began as a child, watching my mother fight for respect and attention for women’s health issues,” she recounted. She believes that prioritizing maternal health will have lasting effects on families and future generations.
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In summary, Vice President Kamala Harris is spearheading a comprehensive approach to improve maternal health, particularly for marginalized groups, by engaging various government sectors, extending Medicaid coverage, and addressing systemic biases. Her dedication, fueled by personal experiences, aims to ensure that all mothers receive the respect and care they deserve.