Presenter
Michaela Siver, PA-S
Document Type
Poster
Publication Date
2025
Abstract
Maternal mortality is a national health crisis, disproportionately affecting Black women. The Medicaid expansion program, an optional program at the state level, is responsible for providing coverage for nearly half of all live births in the United States. This research addressed if Medicaid expansion has reduced maternal mortality rates, especially for Black women, when compared to non-expansion states. Multiple literature searches yielded a set of peer-reviewed journal articles and government reports that were used to answer this question. Medicaid expansion has resulted in a significant decline in maternal deaths, with 7.01 fewer casualties per 100,000 births in expansion states as compared to non-expansion states. The most significant decline was found amongst Back mothers, and the studies indicated the importance of healthcare coverage for longer periods of time postpartum. The improved care afforded by Medicaid expansion also resulted in lower maternal mortality caused by cardiovascular issues. Undoubtedly, Medicaid expansion has proven an important program for combating the remarkably high maternal mortality rates in the United States. With respect to clinical practice, this thesis highlights the importance of healthcare coverage and health literacy in addressing the maternal mortality crisis.
Faculty Mentor
Lora Robertson, M.M.Sc., PA-C
Academic Discipline
College of Health & Wellness
Repository Citation
Siver, Michaela, "Medicaid Expansion and Black Maternal Mortality" (2025). Student Research Design & Innovation Symposium. 197.
https://scholarsarchive.jwu.edu/innov_symposium/197
