By Ashley Schmidt, Sr. Vice President of Client Excellence:
Maternal Health Awareness Day, observed annually on January 23, highlights the urgent need to address maternal mortality in the United States. In 2020, the U.S. reported 24 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births, significantly higher than other high-income countries. Barriers to prenatal and postpartum care—such as lack of transportation, limited availability of healthcare providers, financial constraints, and the closure of pharmacies in underserved communities—contribute to these alarming statistics.
Between 2003 and 2021 the number of retail pharmacies in noncore rural areas declined by 9.8%, and in rural micropolitan areas by 4.4%, while metropolitan areas saw a 15.1% increase during the same period (Rural Health Research). These challenges disproportionately affect women in areas with fewer healthcare resources, increasing the risk of complications during pregnancy and postpartum recovery.
While community pharmacies are not substitutes for obstetric care, they can play a complementary role in addressing these gaps. With 88.9% of Americans living within five miles of a pharmacy, these accessible health hubs can provide critical support for maternal health.
Pharmacies can assist by offering prenatal vitamins and nutritional counseling, supporting maternal nutrition, and addressing complications related to food insecurity. They can also provide mental health services, including medication management and referrals, to help tackle conditions like postpartum depression, which affects 1 in 8 mothers. Preventive care, such as vaccinations and screenings for preeclampsia, can further enhance maternal outcomes.
Pharmacies have the potential to act as conduits to social services, such as housing, childcare, and transportation assistance, by partnering with local organizations or leveraging existing community resources. By addressing these holistic needs, pharmacies can complement traditional medical care and enhance support for expectant and new mothers.
As we recognize Maternal Health Awareness Day, let’s harness the potential of pharmacies to complement clinical care and improve maternal health outcomes, ultimately fostering healthier families and communities.