Maternal Mortality in Indiana (2022): Contributing factors and policy recommendations

Abstract

Indiana has the third highest maternal mortality rate in the nation, at 44 maternal deaths for every 100,000 live births. In 2020, the rate was 23 per 100,000, up from 12 per 100,000 in 2018. The Center for Research on Inclusion and Social Policy found that contributing factors to this high rate include a lack of access to maternal health services and OB/GYNs around the state, inadequate care for maternal mental health and substance use disorders, and a lack of diversity and cultural awareness among Indiana’s health care workforce. The researchers recommend expanding equitable access to health care coverage, creating more diverse and inclusive health care environments, co-locating maternal and mental health care services, integrating mental health and substance use treatment services in prenatal settings, and bridging gaps in communities that face health care issues, such as those without access to adequate maternal and delivery care in hospitals.