Biden-Harris Administration's Efforts to Improve Maternal Health

In June 2022, Vice President Kamala Harris unveiled the Biden-Harris Administration’s Blueprint for Addressing the Maternal Health Crisis. This initiative aims to reduce maternal mortality and improve maternal health outcomes across the United States, with a strong focus on equity. Since its launch, significant strides have been made under this blueprint.

Today, Vice President Harris highlighted key accomplishments at the 71st National Boulé for the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority in Dallas, TX.

Some of these achievements include:

1. Federal Health and Safety Standards: Introducing baseline requirements for obstetric emergency services in hospitals to enhance maternal care during emergencies, ensuring protocols and supplies are readily available.

2. Extended Postpartum Medicaid Coverage: Extending coverage from 2 to 12 months postpartum across 46 states and D.C., offering crucial support during a high-risk period for mothers.

3. "Birthing Friendly" Hospital Designation: Creating a new designation for hospitals committed to quality maternity care, helping women easily identify high-quality facilities.

4. National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: Launching a hotline providing free, confidential support to nearly 38,000 individuals, addressing maternal mental health challenges.

5. Workforce and Training Initiatives: Increasing support for maternity care providers, including OB/GYNs, nurses, midwives, doulas, and lactation counselors, to ensure comprehensive care for pregnant and postpartum women.

6. Veterans’ Maternity Care: Expanding VA maternity care coordination to support veterans through 12 months postpartum, addressing health and social needs.

7. Maternal Health Research and Education: Investing in research initiatives and educational campaigns like the "Hear Her" campaign to raise awareness about maternal health warning signs.

8. Legislative Measures: Enacting laws such as the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act and the Providing Urgent Maternal Protections Act, ensuring workplace accommodations and protections for pregnant and nursing mothers.

9. Community Engagement and Support: Hosting events and initiatives nationwide to connect individuals with maternal health resources and support services.

10. Public-Private Partnerships: Securing commitments from over 30 entities to invest in maternal health initiatives and reduce disparities.

These efforts reflect the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to addressing systemic issues in maternal health, aiming to improve outcomes and support for all mothers across the country. Vice President Harris continues to advocate and raise awareness about maternal health challenges, building on her longstanding dedication to women’s health and safety.

By implementing these comprehensive strategies, the administration strives to create lasting improvements in maternal health care, ensuring every woman receives the care and support she needs during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum.

Source: The White House, July 10, 2024