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Health of America: Addressing maternal health disparities

Childbirth complications are prominent in the U.S., especially for Black women. According to the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association Health of America data, the problem continues to worsen.

Blue Cross Blue Shield Association Health of America data shows that nationally, childbirth complications are 63% higher in majority Black communities vs. majority white communities. And in Philadelphia, childbirth complications are ~190% higher for Black women vs. white women.

Quality care, including a healthy pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum should be within everyone’s reach.

Independence Blue Cross (Independence) is committed to supporting the National Health Equity Strategy led by Blue Cross Blue Shield Association to address racial health disparities across the nation. BCBSA has a national goal to reduce maternal health disparities by 50 percent in the next five years. Independence has taken a leadership role in developing programs, like Keystone Connection to Wellness, to improve mental health. The partnership with Project HOME and AmeriHealth Caritas helps expectant mothers in North Philadelphia ensure healthy pregnancies and children. It is a pilot program of the Accelerate Health Equity collaboration.

Led by the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, Health of America, is a source of insights, information, and powerful stories highlighting how Blue plans across the nation are leading the way to better health – and better health care – for America. Learn more at ibx.com/healthofamerica.