Us Congress Senate Bill SR530

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/24
• Refer: 1/23/24

Caption

A resolution designating January 23, 2024, as "Maternal Health Awareness Day".

Impact

The resolution supports initiatives designed to eliminate disparities in maternal health outcomes. It calls for action from the Federal Government, states, and various health organizations to reduce adverse maternal health outcomes and improve maternal safety practices. Notably, it incorporates data revealing that pregnant individuals, especially those from marginalized racial and ethnic backgrounds, face significantly higher risks of mortality during and after childbirth. This indicates a need for systemic changes to address this concerning trend within maternal healthcare.

Summary

SR530 is a resolution that designates January 23, 2024, as 'Maternal Health Awareness Day'. This resolution aims to raise public awareness about maternal mortality and morbidity rates as well as the disparities seen in maternal health outcomes across the United States. It highlights the alarming statistic that approximately 700 individuals die each year due to complications from pregnancy and childbirth, and emphasizes that many of these deaths are preventable. The resolution advocates for greater attention to maternal health issues and for measures to improve the situation.

Contention

There are several social determinants of health contributing to adverse maternal outcomes, including biases against certain groups, access to healthcare facilities, and the quality of care received. The resolution underscores the urgency of addressing these disparities, particularly for Black, American Indian, and Alaska Native individuals. It also stresses the importance of culturally competent care and equitable maternity practices. With this resolution, advocates aim to challenge existing healthcare inequities and promote a more equitable healthcare landscape for pregnant individuals.