Joco Today

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D., a former Obstetrician-Gynecologist, addressed witnesses during a Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee hearing focused on maternal mortality in the US. Senator Marshall shared his insights and experiences, emphasizing the need for improvements in maternal health outcomes.

During the hearing, Senator Marshall highlighted the importance of addressing maternal deaths, stating, "I want to make sure everybody knows that one maternal death is too many." He also stressed the significance of community health centers in providing prenatal care and postpartum support, citing his own successful experience in setting up a prenatal clinic.

In discussions about the common causes of maternal death, Dr. Lawson, President of the National Medical Association, mentioned that in different demographic groups, factors such as cardiovascular disease and mental health issues play a significant role. Senator Marshall pointed out that currently, the leading cause of maternal death is related to suicide, drug overdosing, and fentanyl poisoning.

Regarding the timing of maternal deaths, Senator Marshall and Dr. Lawson highlighted the importance of postpartum care, with over half of these deaths occurring more than a week after delivery. They emphasized the role of community health centers in addressing mental health and addiction issues in the postpartum period.

Senator Marshall also addressed the increasing prevalence of heart disease in maternal mortality cases, attributing it to factors such as older maternal age, obesity, and diabetes. He reiterated the importance of community health centers in promoting healthier outcomes for mothers before pregnancy.

In conclusion, Senator Marshall commended the efforts of healthcare professionals and community health centers in making a positive impact on maternal health. He expressed his support for bipartisan legislation aimed at improving maternal health outcomes and underlined the critical role of community health centers in providing comprehensive care to pregnant women and new mothers.