Maternal health: Progress — but challenges remain: Part 2

In the second part of their discussion, Sandra and Dr. Lewis focus on the path forward, detailing concrete systemic solutions and policy changes vital for creating safer outcomes for mothers. Dr. Lewis advocates for extending postpartum Medicaid coverage nationwide, stressing that the majority of maternal mortality occurs in the year following delivery — a critical window for intervention. The conversation also covers New York State's vital data-driven research into disparate C-section rates and their associated risks, as well as crucial advice for self-advocacy and the importance of multidisciplinary care and community support. Northwell is New York State’s largest healthcare provider and private employer, with 28 hospitals, 890 outpatient facilities and more than 16,600 affiliated physicians. We’re making breakthroughs in medicine at the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research. We're training the next generation of medical professionals at the visionary Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell and the Hofstra Northwell School of Nursing and Physician Assistant Studies. Get the latest news and insights from our experts in the Northwell Newsroom: Press releases Insights Podcasts Publications Interested in a career at Northwell Health? Visit our career site and explore our many opportunities. Watch episodes of 20-Minute Health Talk on YouTube.  For information on our more than 100 medical specialties, visit Northwell.edu and follow us @NorthwellHealth on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn.