Saving America's Moms and Babies
The United States has the highest rate of maternal deaths in the developed world—and it's rising. The maternal mortality rate has more than doubled since the early 1980s.
The U.S. spends an estimated $165.3 billion annually on avoidable medical expenses and lost economic productivity due to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Heartland Forward's Maternal & Child Health Center for Policy & Practice (MCH CPP) is driving change in the heartland and across America.
To save America's mothers by cutting maternal mortality in half by 2031
Guided by the National Governors Association's proven playbook and building on The Economic Case for Investing in Maternal Health, the MCH CPP partners with policymakers, providers and community organizations to drive lasting improvements in care and support for moms at every step—because strong, healthy mothers build strong, healthy communities.
Moms need more support for more issues, more flexibly.
One visit, six weeks after birth, is dangerous—if it even happens.
~40% of American moms have no follow up*
Incentivize the outcomes we want.
Source: Commonwealth Fund, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
Applying a proven playbook in partnership with policymakers, providers and community organizations to advance maternal health.
Building on the Economic Case for Investing in Maternal Health, proving that improved maternal health outcomes directly strengthen state economies.
Using this approach, states have improved their maternal health rankings by nearly 20 positions in just 7 years.
Demonstrating how maternal resilience and improved maternal health outcomes strengthen state economies. Building data-driven models that support effective solutions in rural areas.
Convening community health leaders and lawmakers to strengthen care pathways. Acting as a convener and technical expert—supporting initiatives like reopening labor and delivery units.
Equipping providers with the tools and policies needed to deliver team-based care. Integrating community health workers and doulas while addressing regulatory and staffing challenges.
Director
MCH Center for Policy and Practice
Fellow
Maternal Health Initiative
Heartland Forward is a non-profit, policy think-and-do tank that turns ideas into action for states and local communities. Our mission is to accelerate economic growth and change the narrative about the middle of the country.