AUTHORS

Rabab Isa BS*, Nuha Arefin BS, Kristie Loescher MPH, DBA, SHRM-SCP

 

INTRODUCTION

Maternal and child health disparities are a pressing public health issue in the United States, disproportionately affecting people of color and those facing economic disadvantages.

 

METHODS

This study conducts a literature review to investigate access, cost, and quality issues in maternal and child healthcare in the US, and analyzes the cost burden on families and the healthcare system.

 

RESULTS

ACCESS: In 2012-2013, Black and Hispanic children had higher uninsured rates than White children. Texas ranks worst in healthcare affordability nationwide, and the US has the highest maternal morbidity rate among developed nations.

COST: Premature infant care exceeds $50,000 per household, costing employers $12.8 billion annually. Healthy, full-term baby medical expenses averaged $5,085, mainly covered ($4,389) by employer health plans, whereas for premature or low birth weight babies, costs soared to $55,393. The economic burden of preterm birth was estimated at $26.2 billion in 2005, mainly borne by government programs like Medicaid and families.

QUALITY: Black women face three to four times higher pregnancy-related complications mortality than white women, while American Indian/Alaska Native women face 2.5 times higher risks. Publicly insured children have over twice the hospitalization rate compared to privately insured and uninsured children (5.4% vs. 2.4% and 1.9%, respectively).

 

CONCLUSION

The disparities in maternal and child healthcare stem from systemic inequalities, policy gaps, and market failures. This research seeks to inform healthcare policy and practice in the US, and improve the overall health and well-being of mothers, infants, and children.