What A Fair Health System Looks Like When Quality Care Is Guaranteed

As Thanksgiving approaches, countless Black families across the United States rejoice after welcoming new lives into their homes within the past year. Tragically, not all families share in this joy, as many mourn the loss of mothers and infants due to complications during pregnancy or childbirth.Notably, a staggering 80% of maternal and neonatal fatalities are preventable with adequate care. Recent findings from the CDC highlight low birth weight as a primary concern for infants, while mothers often face hemorrhage. Such disparities highlight systemic racism’s lingering effects; Black women are subjected to the highest maternal mortality rates and often experience mistreatment during healthcare interactions.To combat these challenges, immediate proactive measures are crucial. Families should initiate discussions about prenatal care, explore reliable medical providers, and advocate for their health. Enhancing health literacy and utilizing available resources are imperative steps toward ensuring that quality healthcare becomes a fundamental right for all, especially for historically marginalized communities.