Moms are dying. We need to act.

We can no longer turn a blind eye to the disturbing trend of moms dying in childbirth or shortly after.

There is a dire need for hospitals to be resourced and empowered to do more to assist women during and after pregnancy. These deaths are preventable if more women — especially women of color — have access to the quality health care they need, and have a greater role and voice in their care.

The journey through the hospital system can be complicated, but our ulti- mate goal should be to improve the culture of patient safety. We need continued advocacy, awareness, funding and innovative practices that address the fundamental medical and social factors related to moms becoming seriously ill or dying. Uncovering these challenges will help identify the root causes and devise scalable solutions. But, more important, it will serve to magnify the voices of moms and women who are at the center of this crisis.

Stacey D. Stewart, president March of Dimes

Washington, D.C.

One thing is clear from USA TODAY’s investigation “Deadly deliveries”: We need enforceable care protocols.

At nearly all hospitals, people with symptoms of a heart attack are given the same tests, treatments and care. It’s a process that works but one we aren’t using in maternal care. That’s why I introduced the MOMMA Act to establish and enforce national emergency obstetric protocols. The bill also addresses a challenge highlighted in the investigation: a lack of quality data. We still lack a clear picture of exactly what’s happening because there is no standardized data reporting form. Additionally, my bill would establish a national review committee, a proven strategy to curb the ris- ing number of deaths, and would expand health coverage to the entire postpartum period. It also fosters culturally competent care to address the shocking fact that black mothers are more likely to die than white mothers. We’re waiting for a Republican co-sponsor to step up and help pass this commonsense and lifesaving legislation.

Rep. Robin Kelly, D-Ill.

Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Health Braintrust Washington, D.C.

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