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Ample data suggests that America is the most dangerous place to give birth in the developed world. But while concerned parents blame our health care system and, more specifically, the medical professionals directly involved in childbirth, the medical community has repeatedly claimed that unhealthy parents are, in fact, to blame. This chicken-or-egg argument may be even more complicated than once assumed, as we explain below:
Childbirth Injuries and Fatalities: By the Numbers
It’s no secret that the United States leads the developed world in infant mortality, but the issue may be far more severe than most people suspect. Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control indicate that maternal deaths related to childbirth have increased substantially in the last several years, reaching an alarming 23.8 deaths per 100,000 births in 2014. The CDC also reports that approximately 700 women die in childbirth every year — and an additional 50,000 women suffer severe pregnancy complications.
The Role of Misdiagnosis and Delayed Care
A recent USA Today investigation reveals that, despite claims from the health care industry, poverty and parental health are not necessarily to blame for the nation’s alarmingly high rates of infant mortality and birth defects.
While many hospitals and clinics offer exceptional care, negligence is clearly on display at some facilities. Select settings see higher mortality rates regardless of mothers’ demographics or health conditions. Common issues include misdiagnosis of birth-related conditions and the failure to properly monitor blood pressure and other metrics. Based on this evidence, mothers should not automatically be blamed for delivery room tragedies.
If you believe that medical negligence played a role in the traumatic injuries suffered by you or your child, you owe it to yourself to seek legal support. The passionate team at Regan Zambri Long PLLC is happy to help. Reach out today to learn more about our approach to medical malpractice cases.
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