Maternal Health Awareness Day.
ACR120 emphasizes the progress California has made in reducing maternal mortality, specifically citing a 65% decline between 2006 and 2016. This success is attributed to the efforts of the California Maternal Quality Care Collaborative (CMQCC), which has focused on improving health outcomes for mothers and infants through research and collaborative outreach. However, the resolution stresses the need for ongoing efforts to address maternal health challenges, including mental health screenings and widespread health awareness leading up to and following pregnancy.
Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 120 (ACR120), authored by Bauer-Kahan, proclaims January 23, 2022, as Maternal Health Awareness Day. The resolution aims to draw attention to the serious issue of maternal health, particularly in light of concerning statistics regarding maternal mortality rates in the U.S., which are notably high among industrialized nations. Notably, the resolution underscores the disparities in maternal outcomes for Black pregnant individuals, who are disproportionately affected by maternal mortality compared to their white counterparts.
The sentiment expressed in the bill is largely positive, highlighting California's leadership in improving maternal health outcomes while simultaneously acknowledging that further work is needed. Elected officials, health organizations, and advocates support the resolution as a means to promote public awareness and encourage strategies that improve the health of expecting mothers and their children. The bill reflects a collective commitment to addressing maternal health disparities, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
There are no notable points of contention specifically outlined within the resolution. However, it does reflect a broader conversation about maternal health indicators and the disparities that exist within various demographic groups. By recognizing January 23 as Maternal Health Awareness Day, ACR120 aims to foster dialogue and action to address these pressing issues, while also calling for the coordination of care between obstetrics and mental health services. This collaborative approach aims to enhance the overall care for pregnant individuals and address the unique challenges they face.