Sense of Community: Maternal Health in the Ozarks


Missouri consistently ranks among the lowest-performing states in maternal healthcare. In a 2024 report from the Commonwealth Fund, Missouri placed 43rd in the nation for outcomes related to women’s health and reproductive care.
On Sense of Community, we speak with leading health experts from the Ozarks, and across the state, to examine what’s driving these rankings and to explore what's being done to improve maternal health outcomes in Missouri.

Maternal Health in the Ozarks - Video Features
Physicians and maternal health advocates reckon with Missouri's troubling maternal mortality rate
OB/GYNs in Springfield and Columbia discuss the often hidden risks to maternal health in Missouri
Federal grants offer support and care for pregnant women struggling with substance use disorder
How unprocessed trauma becomes a gateway to addiction.
Partners across the state are pinpointing preventable issues in maternal health and working together
Hear about the challenges faced by mom’s in rural areas
Maternal health advocates unpack what the program actually provides for women
Hear how rural counties has a chance for care and support.
Maternal Health in the Ozarks - Resource List
Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services
Pregnancy-Associated Mortality Review (PAMR)
Missouri Perinatal Quality Collaborative
Missouri PAMR Report Highlights
The Commonwealth Fund
2024 State Scorecard on Women’s Health and Reproductive Care
March of Dimes
Missouri Report Card

