NYC Gazette

Today marks the last day of Black Maternal Health week, a time to raise awareness about the deplorably high rate of maternal mortality among Black women in the United States. In response to this crisis, a key policy change has been the extension of Pregnancy Medicaid postpartum coverage from 60 days to 12 months in 46 states. Teresa Janevic, an associate professor of Epidemiology at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, acknowledges this as a major accomplishment, stating, "Such national consensus is a major accomplishment and should be applauded."

However, despite the positive step, research indicates that the Medicaid extension alone may not fully address the Black maternal health crisis, especially in states with existing generous Medicaid policies. For instance, in New York, where postpartum Medicaid coverage was extended regardless of immigration status, disparities persist. According to a recently released maternal mortality review, non-Hispanic Black women in New York have a pregnancy-related mortality rate five times higher than non-Hispanic White women.

The impact of the Medicaid extension on Black maternal health in New York is still being assessed. Janevic's ongoing research suggests that the law may have minimal impact on U.S.-born Black women in states like New York, where only 5% of Black women were uninsured postpartum, potentially due to earlier Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act.

The policy change is expected to have a greater impact on immigrant Black women, as inclusive postpartum Medicaid extensions can significantly improve access to healthcare for this vulnerable population. Furthermore, continuous enrollment in postpartum Medicaid can strengthen health systems serving low-income communities and relieve stress for new mothers, as highlighted by Janevic's research team.

In light of these benefits, the extension of postpartum Medicaid coverage is seen as an achievement, but there is a call for additional measures to address the structural racism underlying the maternal health crisis. Janevic emphasizes the need for comprehensive Medicaid coverage, equitable access to paid family leave, affordable housing, healthy food, and a supportive environment for Black women. She also stresses the importance of policies being continually evaluated to ensure they are inclusive and effective.

As Black Maternal Health Week concludes, it is important to acknowledge the progress made with postpartum Medicaid extension legislation while being aware of its limitations. The focus now shifts to sustaining policy momentum and seeking further solutions to improve Black maternal health outcomes.