Maternal mortality rates increasing nationwide and in Idaho

Maternal mortality is increasing across the country as well as here in Idaho. Local doctors who watch these trends say it stems from the increase of older women choosing to have children.

“They (older women) tend to have higher chances of hypertension, diabetes, obesity,” said Dr. Pamela Denson, MD, OBGYN. “I think Idaho is just reflective of the national statistics.”

Denson said another possible reason could be the cost of health care.

She said there are a lot of people who make too much money to be covered by medicaid, but too little to be able to afford insurance deductibles and co-payments.

“These moms are less likely to come in sooner for pre-conceptual counseling, or they’re less likely to come in until later in their pregnancy,” said Denson. “And by that time, it’s just harder for us to take care of them without knowing their pregnancy history.”

There are resources available for moms who need the care but struggle with the costs. One of the best ways in Idaho is to call the state’s care and referral service number, 211. “The public health department is another good place to start,” said Shaun Bill, a professional who makes a living on getting people the resources they need. “The health department has a list of resources and often times they will have discounted or free services for woman.”

Medical staff from Mountain View hospital, as well as the health department, say the most important thing is the health of both mom and baby.

If costs are an issue, many doctors can create payment plans to make medical expenses easier to manage. Some doctors also reduce up front costs if its done with cash.

It should be noted that while Idaho’s maternal mortality rates are increasing as a whole, Eastern Idaho isn’t seeing the increase.

“I haven’t seen any statistical bump as far as maternal mortality for this specific part of Idaho,” said Denson.