Publication Date: March 25th, 2022
Publication Type(s): Peer-reviewed Journal Publications
Topic(s): Health Disparities and Health Equity, Healthcare Access, Hospitals and Clinics, Maternal Health, Women
Author(s): Kozhimannil KB, Interrante JD, Admon LK, and Basile Ibrahim BB
Rural obstetric unit closures are associated with adverse maternal and infant health outcomes and are most common among low–birth volume facilities located in remote areas. Declining access to obstetric care is a concern in rural communities in the US. This study offers results from a national survey of a sample of 292 rural hospitals that provided obstetric services in 2021. Obstetric unit administrators administrators shared about their experiences, the challenges they face, and the decisions that factor into providing labor and birth care for their rural communities.
Published in: Jama Health Forum