HOUSTON, Texas –Efforts are underway to address a critical gap in maternal healthcare services, particularly in rural areas where the scarcity of prenatal and birthing care is alarming.
According to recent reports, almost half of Texas counties lack essential maternity care services. This situation has prompted rural healthcare providers and advocates to urge the Texas Legislature to take action and strengthen the state’s maternal healthcare infrastructure.
Medicaid, which finances a substantial portion of births in Texas, particularly in rural areas, covers up to 90% of births. However, the reimbursement rates and funding are often insufficient to sustain comprehensive maternity services.
To tackle these challenges, a new plan is being proposed that includes legislative measures aimed at bolstering the maternal healthcare system.
The key aspects of this plan are enhancing Medicaid funding for maternal care, providing financial incentives to rural hospitals that offer maternity services, and increasing support for telehealth services to reach underserved areas.
The plan also highlights the need for attracting and retaining healthcare professionals in rural communities. There is a significant shortage of obstetricians and gynecologists willing to practice in these areas, a gap that needs addressing through targeted recruitment and training programs.