Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Obstetric Care

Abstract

Cultural and racial disparities in obstetric care have been the focus of documentaries, national referendums, and op-ed commentary for several years. Data show that non-Hispanic Black women are almost four times more likely to die than their White counterparts and that the divide is growing. Although there is dialogue around maternal health and controlling for variables, race and hospital variability continue to dictate mortality and morbidity outcomes. Women of racial or ethnic minority experience higher rates of late or no prenatal care for comorbidities such as asthma, obesity and anemia, and gestational diabetes.