Addressing the Maternal Health Crisis in Rural Georgia: Challenges, Disparities, and Pathways to Improvement.

Abstract

The maternal health crisis in the United States, marked by alarming maternal mortality rates, necessitates a multidisciplinary response, including from surgical specialties. Despite a decline in maternal mortality rates in 2022, disparities remain, with Black women experiencing significantly higher risks of complications. In Georgia, the maternal mortality rate is notably elevated, particularly in rural areas lacking access to obstetric care. Effective initiatives, such as utilizing informative research to establish impactful community health programs and obstetrical rural residency tracks to address the rural obstetrical provider shortage, aim to bridge these gaps. By equipping local health care providers with advanced skills and utilizing telehealth, surgeons can enhance maternal care accessibility in rural communities. This collaborative approach is vital for improving maternal health outcomes and addressing systemic barriers, ultimately fostering health equity for all women.