AmeriHealth Caritas: Five Crucial Interventions to Improve Health Outcomes for Black Mothers

Which high-income country is the most dangerous place to give birth? If you answered "The United States," AmeriHealth Caritas says you would be correct. In 2021, the U.S. maternal mortality rate hit its highest level since 1965, with deaths disproportionately impacting Black women:

• More than 1,200 women died during pregnancy or shortly after giving birth in 2021, a 40% increase from 2020, according to data from the National Center for Health Statistics.
• The maternal mortality rate for Black women was 69.9 deaths per 100,000 live births, compared to a rate of 26.6 per 100,000 for white women.
• Maternal mortality rates climbed during the pandemic, likely due to COVID-19 itself and the pandemic's impact on delaying care for other conditions.

Is there anything that can be done to reverse this trend? AmeriHealth Caritas, a national leader in Medicaid managed care and other health care solutions for those most in need, suggests five crucial interventions to improve outcomes for Black mothers as we recognize Black Maternal Health Week, April 11-17.

About AmeriHealth Caritas

AmeriHealth Caritas is one of the nation's leaders in health care solutions for those most in need. Operating in 13 states and the District of Columbia, AmeriHealth Caritas serves approximately 5 million Medicaid, Medicare, Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and Health Insurance Marketplace® members through its integrated managed care products, pharmaceutical benefit management and specialty pharmacy services, and behavioral health services. Headquartered in Newtown Square, Pa., AmeriHealth Caritas is a mission-driven organization with nearly 40 years of experience serving low-income and chronically ill populations. For more information, visit www.amerihealthcaritas.com.

Please review the infographic attached and consider using it at your outlet. Should you have any questions and want to interview someone at AmeriHealth Caritas about it, please email me at [email protected] or call 215-840-8605. Thank you.