Confronting Deadly Maternal Health Disparities, Part 1: US Implements Doula Support.

HEALTH equity; MENTAL health services; MATERNAL health; SINGLE-payer health care; MENTAL health screening; WOMEN'S health services; MATERNAL health services; ETHNIC differences; ANXIETY disorders

This article examines the issue of maternal health disparities in the US, specifically focusing on racial disparities in maternal mortality rates. It highlights the high rates of maternal mortality in the US compared to other developed countries, with Black women experiencing the highest rates. The article identifies implicit bias in healthcare as a contributing factor, with stereotypes and prejudices affecting the quality of care received by Black women. It also compares maternity care in the US and the UK, emphasizing the overmedicalization of childbirth in the US and the midwife-driven approach in the UK. The importance of access to healthcare and primary prevention is emphasized, as well as addressing social determinants of health. The article discusses the benefits of community support and doula care in improving maternal health outcomes, and efforts to increase access to doula care through Medicaid coverage and private insurance. It also highlights the need for comprehensive programs that address mental health disparities and the role of state governments and financial incentives in driving change. [Extracted from the article]

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