Vice President Kamala Harris has introduced a new set of national health and safety standards for hospitals aimed at protecting new mothers and addressing the maternal mortality crisis, a significant issue for Black women.
Speaking at the national convention of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., of which she is a member, Harris explained that the new standards establish clear and proper procedures for hospitals and clinics that deliver newborns. They also mandate that these facilities stock adequate specific medical supplies to handle any emergencies that may arise during childbirth.
Additionally, hospitals must have clear procedures for transferring maternity patients to other facilities if they cannot provide the necessary care. Hospital staff must also undergo annual training on evidence-based maternal health practices.
