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There were two significant pieces of news that emerged from Missouri and Kansas this week. On the positive side, doula services are now reimbursable under Missouri Medicaid. Adopted by emergency rule and effective now for a period of six months, this is a serious step in beginning to address the unacceptably high maternal death rate in Missouri, particularly for Black mothers. Studies demonstrate that access to a doula impacts the physical and mental health of our mothers, along with the health of babies. Fewer birth interventions, lower incidence of premature birth and less trauma during labor and delivery are just a few of the tangible benefits, not to mention getting vital postpartum support. Nurture KC has provided doulas to our Healthy Start moms for two years.
The Kansas State Child Death Review Board released its report detailing a significant jump in infant deaths of 21% for the 2022 reporting period. Premature birth and congenital abnormalities were the leading causes of natural deaths and SIDS/unsafe sleep drove a number of the unnatural causes of death. During 2022, there were 45 SIDS/unsafe sleep deaths, a preventable phenomenon when we ensure access to safe sleep surfaces and provide education on the importance of safe sleep. Nurture KC provides Pack ‘n Plays for all of the babies in our Healthy Start program, along with safe sleep education. We completed a two-year project, Nurturing Safe Sleep, helping metro hospitals achieve safe sleep certification as we prioritize this important practice. Clearly, there is so much more that needs to be done at a state level to give this issue the attention it demands.
While both states are moving forward with policies designed for impact in maternal and infant health with postpartum Medicaid expansion and doula coverage in Medicaid, there is more that can and should be done. Both have looked to community to inform some decisions, but coordinated investment across both states to empower local organizations that are often the first and most consistent touch with families is essential to moving the needle on maternal and infant health.
Tracy Russell
Executive Director, Nurture KC
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