The Health Resources and Services Administration is awarding the state Department of Health millions in funding to address maternal health challenges in South Dakota.
The State Maternal Health Innovation program will receive nearly $1 million every year for five years.
DOH officials say they plan to use the money for several of its initiatives, including pregnancy care and creating a statewide maternal health task force. They'll also use the money to broaden their analysis of maternal mortality and morbidity data as well as maternal health needs in the state.
"At the South Dakota Department of Health, we believe that the first thousand days of every life is critical, from conception to the child’s 2nd birthday. Healthy beginnings start with every woman being supported during pregnancy and throughout that critical postpartum period," said Secretary Melissa Magstadt. "Our vision is to enhance maternal health services, strengthen statewide collaboration, and implement evidence-based strategies to ensure positive health outcomes for both mothers and babies."
More than half of South Dakota counties are maternity care deserts. The state says from 2012 to 2021, Native American women were four times more likely to die giving birth in South Dakota, than white women.
DOH officials say other plans include empowering local communities to address needs specific to their populations.