Structural racism has a profound effect on maternal health, resulting in significant inequities for people of color. Black people in the United States are up to four times more likely to experience pregnancy-related death compared with white people, even when accounting for varying factors such as education and income level.1 State policy initiatives to solve these inequities are critical to improving maternal health.
This State Policy Snapshot summarizes how states are working to improve maternal health and equity through Medicaid Section 1115 demonstration programs, provider training requirements, community-based services, and panels to investigate maternal deaths.
