Publication

The United States is facing a maternal health crisis. The United States has the highest infant and maternal mortality rates out of any other high-income country and simultaneously spends the most on health care.(1) In 2024, the infant mortality rate in the US had declined slightly from the 2023 rate but still remained high at a startling 5.342 deaths per 1000 live births, as compared to Iceland who had the lowest rate at 0.966.(2)

Inadequate care and socioeconomic inequalities contributing to chronic conditions, especially in women of color, are contributing factors to these mortality rates. Despite these bleak statistics, access to maternity care continues to decline in the US, with about 36% of counties considered “maternity care desserts.”(3) Access to timely, quality maternal care, including innovative preventative care, unquestionably leads to better outcomes for mothers and babies. 

One such intervention, fetal monitoring, has proven benefits. Fetal monitoring, a non-invasive process, can be used to monitor a baby’s heart rate during pregnancy, a factor determining the well-being of the baby. It enables early detection of problems during pregnancy, allowing for timely treatment, resulting in increased chances for a normal pregnancy and birth. 

Partner with our nationwide network to increase access to healthcare solutions. 

Sources:

1. Global Perspective on U.S. Health Care | Commonwealth Fund1. 
2. U.S. Infant Mortality Rate 1950-2024 | MacroTrends2. 
3. New March of Dimes Research Shows Access to Maternity Care Worsening for Millions of Women in the U.S. | March of Dimes