Maternal Transport, What Do We Know: A Narrative Review

Sally G Barnes, Bailey Sutliff, Michael P Wendel, Everett F Magann Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USACorrespondence: Everett F Magann, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St. Slot #518, Pulaski County, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA, Tel +1-501-686-8345, Fax +1-501-526-7820, Email efmagann@uams.eduObjective: This review examines the initial development of a transport system for neonates, followed by a subsequent evolution of a transportation system for the maternal/fetal unit, and then a maternal transport system (antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum) to specifically address maternal morbidity/mortality.Methods: A literature search was undertaken using the electronic databases PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL. The search terms used were “maternal transport†AND “perinatal care†OR “labor†“obstetrics†OR “deliveryâ€. The years searched were 1960– 2023.Results: There were 260 abstracts identified and 52 of those are the basis of this review. The utilization of a transportation system with the regionalization of levels of care has resulted in a significant reduction in neonatal, perinatal, and maternal morbidity and mortality. Although preterm delivery remains a concern in women transported, the number of deliveries that have occurred during transport is relatively small. Reimbursement for transportation continues to be a problem in several states.Conclusion: A state-of-the-art transportation system has evolved that transfers neonates, maternal/fetal dyad, and pregnant women (antepartum, intrapartum, postpartum) to the appropriate level of care facility to ensure the best maternal/fetal/neonatal outcomes.Keywords: maternal transport, maternal morbidity/mortality, perinatal morbidity/mortality, levels of care, pregnancy