Georgia committee to assess need for new regional perinatal center amid maternal mortality review

On March 10, 2025, the Georgia State Legislature's Senate Committee on Health and Human Services convened to discuss critical issues surrounding maternal health and mortality in the state. The meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to address maternal mortality rates, which have become a pressing concern in Georgia.

A significant focus of the discussion was the relationship between the newly formed advisory committee and the existing Maternal Mortality Review Committee (MMRC). The MMRC is tasked with conducting in-depth reviews of maternal deaths, analyzing medical records, and interviewing families to understand the causes of these tragedies. The advisory committee, however, will concentrate on evaluating the hospital-based system of care, particularly the need for additional regional perinatal centers. This is crucial as the current distribution of these centers has not changed in over 30 years, despite significant population growth in Georgia.

The committee members expressed a clear intention to collaborate with hospitals to determine the optimal locations for new perinatal centers, recognizing that the state's healthcare landscape has evolved. This proactive approach aims to enhance maternal care and potentially reduce mortality rates by ensuring that expectant mothers have access to necessary resources and facilities.

Additionally, the meeting touched on advancements in maternal health screening, particularly a new method developed by a physician from Harvard now at Emory University. This screening focuses on identifying women at risk for preeclampsia, a serious condition that can arise during pregnancy. The committee acknowledged the importance of integrating such innovations into their strategies to combat maternal mortality, particularly as preeclampsia falls under cardiovascular health concerns.

Mental health was also a topic of discussion, with committee members recognizing the challenges in accessing mental health assessments for pregnant women. While specific solutions were not detailed, the acknowledgment of these barriers indicates a growing awareness of the need for comprehensive care that includes mental health support.

In conclusion, the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services is taking significant steps to address maternal mortality in Georgia through collaborative efforts and innovative approaches. The discussions from this meeting underscore the importance of adapting healthcare resources to meet the evolving needs of the population, with a focus on both physical and mental health aspects of maternal care. As the committee moves forward, the implementation of these strategies will be closely monitored to assess their impact on maternal health outcomes in the state.