July 15th 2023.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has launched an investigation into the care received by Black mothers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. The inquiry was prompted by the death of Kara Dixon Johnson, who passed away after hemorrhaging following a C-section. Her widowed husband went on to file two lawsuits against the hospital, both alleging negligence towards his wife due to her race.
This has caused the Office of Civil Rights to take a closer look at the situation, as the hospital receives government funding. Director Melanie Fontes Rainer stated, “OCR is aware of allegations that Black women are provided a standard of care below what is provided to other women when receiving healthcare services related to labor and delivery.”
Cedars-Sinai has responded to the allegations, claiming they are actively working to combat the health disparities often faced by Black mothers. They have partnered with various organizations and nonprofits, as well as making financial commitments to those dedicated to uplifting Black mothers and their children. They have also conducted clinical studies to further improve the health of Black mothers through medical care.
Despite these efforts, the Black maternal mortality rate remains much higher than other races, and more than double the rate for white women. The state of California has set up the California Maternal Quality Care Collaborative to connect health providers with state agencies and associations to come up with solutions to this issue.
The investigation is ongoing to ensure that Cedars-Sinai is providing the same standard of care to all, regardless of race. With the disproportionate Black maternal mortality rate still a major issue, it is vital that we take the necessary steps to ensure that all mothers are receiving the care they deserve.
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