Medicaid Moms Face Systemic Gaps in Care

A new national survey reveals that one in five expectant parents skip their crucial first prenatal visit, often waiting until the second trimester or later. Based on interviews with over 3,800 new parents from 2023 and 2024, the “Listening to Mothers” study — now in its 22nd year — shows Medicaid patients face significantly worse care experiences than those with private insurance. Despite recent policy wins like extended Medicaid coverage and paid leave, access is shrinking as maternity wards close and Medicaid budgets shrink. Medicaid patients also report higher rates of complications like high blood pressure and gestational diabetes, plus greater mental health struggles including depression and substance use. The takeaway? Avoiding disaster isn’t enough — families deserve support to truly thrive before, during, and after birth. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/8f292f3107a435b8