Arizona Specific Data
Maternal Mortality in Arizona Report, 2018-2019
In Feb 2024, the Arizona Department of Health Services released a report showing a 44% increase in pregnancy-related deaths from 2016/2017 to 2018/2019, 90% of which were deemed preventable.
These troubling statistics highlight the growing need for innovative and targeted strategies that reduce maternal mortality in our state, as well as increased awareness and resources dedicated to maternal health.
Additional noteworthy findings include:
- The most common underlying cause of pregnancy-related deaths was mental health conditions (32.6%)
- Two ethnic groups, Black/African American and American Indian/Alaska Native, experienced pregnancy-related deaths at nearly 3x their birth rate.
- 72% of pregnancy-associated deaths listed AHCCCS as their primary insurance type, despite accounting for just under half of live births. Fewer than 20% of deaths occurred for those with private insurance.
Arizona's 2023 Report Card
Inaugural Maternal Mental Health State Report Card (2023)
The inaugural Maternal Mental Health Report Card provides the first-ever comprehensive view into the state of maternal mental health in America.
The U.S. is failing mothers – only scoring a D grade. Just one state has received the highest grade of a B-, and 40 states and DC received Ds and Fs.
The report card grades states in three domains:
- Providers and Programs
- Screening and Screening Reimbursement
- Insurance Coverage and Payment
Up to three points are provided for each of the 17 measures within these domains. Arizona received a C grade and still has a lot of work to do! Click HERE to view AZ's Report Card.
