Urges enactment of federal "Maternal Health Accountability Act of 2017."
The implementation of the 'Maternal Health Accountability Act' would empower states and federally recognized Indian tribes to establish maternal mortality review committees. These committees would collect data on maternal deaths and complications and make recommendations for improvements in healthcare delivery, thereby aiming to reduce disparities in maternal health outcomes. The bill also includes provisions for funding programs to support these initiatives, potentially leading to a more coordinated approach to addressing maternal health issues across the nation.
Senate Resolution No. 38, introduced in the New Jersey Senate, urges the United States Congress to enact the federal 'Maternal Health Accountability Act of 2017'. This bill addresses the concerning rise in the maternal mortality rate in the United States, which ranks 50th in the world. The resolution highlights that between 2000 and 2014, maternal mortality increased by approximately 27%, and certain demographic groups, particularly African-American women, face significantly higher risks of complications and death during pregnancy and childbirth. With over 65,000 women affected annually by severe maternal morbidity, urgent action is deemed necessary.
While the resolution expresses unanimous support for addressing maternal health issues, there are ongoing debates regarding the effectiveness of federal versus state initiatives. Proponents argue that enacting this act will facilitate better systemic reviews and allocation of resources to maternal health care, expecting significant improvements in prevention strategies and care quality. Critics might point to the potential for increased federal oversight, raising concerns about local autonomy and the adequacy of top-down solutions that do not consider unique community health needs. Overall, the resolution illustrates a growing recognition of the need to tackle maternal health crises but highlights a tension between federal initiatives and state control.