Alabama has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the nation, with 36.4 deaths per 100,000 live births as of 2020. To address this critical issue, the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) has launched the Maternal Autopsy Program, aiming to gain deeper insights into the causes of maternal deaths and develop strategies to prevent them.
Understanding the Maternal Autopsy Program
Since 2019, the ADPH Maternal Mortality Review Committee has been examining deaths that occur during pregnancy or within a year after delivery. Their goal is to determine causes, contributing factors, and preventability, ultimately crafting actionable recommendations to prevent future tragedies.
However, approximately 50% of maternal deaths in Alabama have not undergone autopsies, leaving significant gaps in understanding. To bridge this gap, the Maternal Autopsy Program offers free autopsies to families of women who died during pregnancy or within a year postpartum, especially if an autopsy isn’t available in their area or is financially out of reach.
These comprehensive autopsies are conducted at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and the University of South Alabama. Initially, coroners in Baldwin, Jefferson, Madison, Marshall, Mobile, Montgomery, Shelby, and Walker counties participated, but the program has expanded statewide to ensure all families have access.
The Importance of This Initiative
By increasing the number of autopsies performed, the program aims to uncover the underlying causes of maternal deaths, providing valuable data to inform prevention strategies. This initiative not only seeks to reduce future maternal mortality but also offers grieving families answers about their loved ones’ passing.
How You Can Stay Informed
As a concerned parent, staying informed about maternal health initiatives in Alabama is crucial. The ADPH provides resources and updates on programs like the Maternal Autopsy Program through their State Perinatal Program.
By supporting and engaging with these programs, you’re contributing to a safer environment for mothers across Alabama. Together, we can work towards a future where maternal deaths are significantly reduced, and families receive the support and answers they deserve.
