Senator Webb Hosts Joint Public Hearing Regarding Maternal Mortality & Morbidity Rates

On Monday, New York State Senator Lea Webb (SD-52), held a joint public hearing regarding disparities in maternal health outcomes. The hearing also gathered input from a wide range of stakeholders. Senator Webb’s office says the hearing focused on barriers to prenatal and postpartum care which contribute to a high maternal mortality and morbidity rates, especially for women of color.

“As Chair of the Senate’s Women’s Issues Committee, I am committed to the health and well-being of all New Yorkers,” said Senator Lea Webb. “Every mother deserves the opportunity for a safe and healthy pregnancy, and it is our responsibility to identify the barriers and disparities that too many women face. Through open dialogue and thoughtful solutions, we will work toward a future where maternal health is prioritized for all, regardless of background or circumstance.”

Three other members of the State Senate joined Senator Webb to lead the hearing: Gustavo Rivera, Chair of the Senate Standing Committee on Health, Roxanne J. Persaud, Chair of the Senate Standing Committee on Social Services, and Samra Brouk, Chair of the Senate Standing Committee on Mental Health.

Senator Webb says New York is ranked 22nd for highest maternal mortality rate with the State Department of Health reporting a maternal mortality rate of 19.3 per 100,000 live births, based on data from 2018-2020. Webb says the rate includes a racial disparity larger than the national average. The US maternal mortality rate is 23.5 deaths per 100,000. Black women were shown as 4 times as likely to die while giving birth in comparison to white women within the state with 70% of those deaths preventable.

Testimony at the hearing was taken from governmental administrators, health practitioners, advocacy groups, and individuals directly impacted by maternal mortality and morbidity. These testimonies provided a platform to document concerns and ideas regarding prenatal and postpartum care, with a focus on identifying actionable solutions to improve outcomes across New York State.