Tennessee Faces Highest Maternal Mortality Rate in the U.S., Sparking Legislative Action

Nashville, Tenn. – Tennessee is grappling with the highest maternal mortality rate in the United States, prompting a series of legislative proposals aimed at improving maternal health outcomes. Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed a concerning trend, with the state recording 166 maternal deaths between 2018 and 2022, resulting in a rate of 41.1 deaths per 100,000 live births [1].

Preventable Deaths and Legislative Response

A report by the Tennessee Department of Health indicated that 74% of the 34 pregnancy-related deaths in 2023 were preventable [1]. State Senator London Lamar (D-Memphis) is leading the charge with a series of bills designed to address this crisis.

Key Legislative Proposals

• Emergency Department Access: One proposal seeks to prevent emergency departments from turning away women in active labor, inspired by recent incidents elsewhere where women were denied care [1]. This is particularly crucial given the closure of maternity wards in rural areas of Tennessee, which exceeds the rate of most other states [1].
• Stillbirth Burial Assistance: Another bill proposes utilizing federal Title V funding to assist mothers with the burial costs of stillborn children, ensuring dignified support regardless of socioeconomic status [1].
• Certified Nurse Midwife Expansion: Senator Lamar is also advocating for a study into allowing certified nurse midwives to practice independently, a practice currently permitted in 31 states and Washington D.C. [1]. This aims to address gaps in maternity care access, particularly in rural and underserved urban areas.

Underlying Causes and Ongoing Review

According to Tennessee’s Maternal Mortality Review Board, mental health conditions, including substance use, were leading causes of pregnancy-related deaths from 2020 to 2022 [3]. The Maternal Mortality Review Committee (MMRC) continuously reviews all deaths occurring during pregnancy or within one year postpartum to identify trends and causes [2].

Looking Ahead

The proposed bills are currently navigating the committee process and require approval from both the House and Senate to become law. With a significant majority of pregnancy-related deaths deemed preventable, stakeholders emphasize the urgent need for action to improve maternal health outcomes across Tennessee.