Wrongful Death
Maternal Mortality: A Crisis Demanding Attention and Accountability
The United States has the highest maternal mortality rate among developed nations, a stark reality that demands urgent attention and systemic change. While childbirth should be a joyous occasion, it’s tragically becoming increasingly dangerous for mothers in America.
At The Killino Firm, we’re dedicated to fighting for the rights of families affected by medical negligence, including those who have suffered the devastating loss of a loved one due to maternal mortality. We believe every mother deserves access to quality care and that healthcare providers must be held accountable when their actions, or inaction, lead to preventable tragedies.
The Alarming Statistics of Maternal Mortality
The numbers paint a grim picture of the maternal health crisis in the U.S.:
- Higher Risk Than Other Developed Nations: The U.S. has the highest maternal mortality rate among developed countries. American women are more than twice as likely to die from pregnancy-related causes as women in many European countries. (CDC)
- Rising Maternal Deaths: Despite advancements in medical technology, maternal deaths in the U.S. have been increasing since 2000, while rates in other developed countries have declined. (CDC)
- Preventable Tragedies: A significant portion of maternal deaths and near-deaths are preventable with proper medical care and timely intervention. (USA Today investigation)
Unveiling the Causes: When Medical Errors Turn Fatal
Many maternal deaths result from medical errors and negligence, including:
- Failure to Recognize and Treat Complications: Conditions like preeclampsia, hemorrhage, and infections require prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent serious complications.
- Delayed or Mismanaged Cesarean Sections: Errors in timing or performing C-sections can have life-threatening consequences.
- Medication Errors: Incorrect medications or dosages can lead to severe complications for the mother.
- Communication Breakdowns: Lack of communication and coordination among healthcare providers can delay critical interventions.
The Disproportionate Impact on Minority Mothers
The maternal mortality crisis disproportionately affects minority women, particularly Black mothers.
- Three Times the Risk: Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women. (CDC)
- Underlying Causes: These disparities stem from systemic issues, including implicit bias, limited access to quality care, and social determinants of health.
Seeking Justice and Driving Change
When a mother dies due to medical negligence, families have the right to seek justice through legal action. Wrongful death lawsuits can:
- Hold negligent parties accountable: Ensure that healthcare providers are held responsible for preventable deaths.
- Secure compensation for families: Provide financial support to families who have suffered a devastating loss.
- Drive systemic change: Encourage hospitals and healthcare providers to improve their practices and prioritize patient safety.
The Killino Firm: Advocates for Mothers and Families
At The Killino Firm, we’re committed to representing families affected by birth injuries, medical malpractice, and maternal deaths. We understand the profound impact of these tragedies and are dedicated to fighting for the rights of those who have been harmed.
Our experienced legal team will:
- Conduct thorough investigations: We’ll meticulously examine medical records and consult with experts to determine if negligence occurred.
- Provide compassionate support: We understand the emotional toll of losing a loved one and offer guidance and support throughout the legal process.
- Fight for maximum compensation: We’ll pursue all available avenues to secure the financial resources your family needs and deserves.
If you’ve lost a loved one due to medical negligence during pregnancy or childbirth, contact The Killino Firm today for a free consultation. We’re here to help you seek justice and honor the memory of your loved one.
COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT MATERNAL DEATH:
What is maternal mortality?
Maternal mortality refers to the death of a woman while pregnant or within 42 days of the end of pregnancy, irrespective of the duration and site of the pregnancy, from any cause related to or aggravated by the pregnancy or its management, but not from accidental or incidental causes. (World Health Organization) 2
How common is maternal mortality in the United States?
The U.S. maternal mortality rate is alarmingly high compared to other developed countries. In 2021, the rate was 32.9 deaths per 100,000 live births, a significant increase from previous years. (CDC) This means that for every 100,000 live births, approximately 33 women died due to pregnancy-related complications.
What are the leading causes of maternal death?
Several factors contribute to maternal mortality, including:
- Cardiovascular conditions: Heart conditions and stroke are leading causes of maternal death, accounting for approximately 15-20% of pregnancy-related deaths.
- Hemorrhage: Severe bleeding is another major cause, responsible for about 10-15% of maternal deaths.
- Infection: Infections during pregnancy or postpartum can lead to sepsis and other life-threatening complications, contributing to around 10% of deaths.
- Preeclampsia and eclampsia: These pregnancy-related hypertensive disorders can cause serious complications for both mother and baby.
- Mental health conditions: Suicide and drug overdoses are also contributing factors to maternal mortality.
Are there racial disparities in maternal mortality?
Yes, unfortunately, there are significant racial disparities in maternal mortality rates in the U.S. Black women are three times more likely to die from a pregnancy-related cause than White women. (CDC) These disparities persist across age groups, education levels, and socioeconomic status.
What are some of the reasons for the racial disparities?
The reasons behind racial disparities are complex and multifaceted, but they are rooted in systemic inequities and implicit bias within the healthcare system:
- Implicit Bias: Studies have shown that implicit bias among healthcare providers can lead to differences in the quality of care received by Black and minority women.
- Access to Care: Black women are more likely to face barriers to accessing quality prenatal and postpartum care, including lack of insurance, limited access to healthcare providers, and transportation challenges.
- Pre-existing Conditions: Black women are more likely to have pre-existing health conditions that can increase the risk of pregnancy complications.
- Stress and Trauma: The cumulative impact of stress, trauma, and discrimination can negatively impact Black women’s health and pregnancy outcomes.
What is a "near miss" maternal mortality?
A “near miss” maternal mortality refers to a situation where a woman nearly dies due to pregnancy, childbirth or postnatal complications but survives. These cases often involve severe complications, such as hemorrhage, eclampsia, or sepsis, that require intensive medical intervention.
How can maternal deaths be prevented?
Addressing the maternal mortality crisis requires a multi-pronged approach:
- Improved access to care: Ensuring that all women have access to quality prenatal and postpartum care, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status.
- Early detection and intervention: Improving early detection and treatment of pregnancy complications.
- Standardized protocols: Implementing standardized protocols for managing obstetric emergencies, such as postpartum hemorrhage.
- Better communication and coordination: Enhancing communication and coordination among healthcare providers involved in maternal care.
- Addressing racial disparities: Tackling the systemic racism and implicit bias that contribute to higher maternal mortality rates among Black and Indigenous women.
- Mental health support: Expanding access to mental health services for pregnant and postpartum women.
What is the role of a maternal death lawyer?
A maternal death lawyer concentrate in representing families who have lost a loved one due to pregnancy, childbirth or postnatal complications. Our maternal death lawyers can help families:
- Investigate the circumstances of the death: Determine if medical negligence or other factors contributed to the death.
- Gather evidence: Collect medical records, expert testimony, and other evidence to support a wrongful death claim.
- Negotiate with insurance companies: Seek a fair settlement for the family’s losses.
- File a lawsuit: If necessary, file a lawsuit and represent the family in court.
What types of damages can be recovered in a maternal death lawsuit?
A maternal death lawsuit can help families recover compensation for various losses, including:
- Loss of financial support: The income and benefits the deceased mother would have provided to her family.
- Loss of companionship and consortium: The emotional loss and loss of support suffered by the family.
- Funeral expenses: The costs of the funeral and burial.
- Medical expenses: Any medical expenses incurred before the mother’s death.
- Pain and suffering: In some cases, damages for the mother’s pain and suffering before her death.
What should I do if I suspect my loved one's death was caused by medical negligence?
If you believe that medical negligence played a role in your loved one’s death, it’s crucial to:
- Gather medical records: Obtain copies of all medical records related to the pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care.
- Contact The Killino Firm: Consult with our experienced maternal death attorneys as soon as possible to discuss your legal options.
- Preserve evidence: Keep any relevant documentation, such as communications with healthcare providers or photos related to the care received.
Maternal mortality is a complex and heartbreaking issue. By understanding the contributing factors and seeking legal help when negligence is involved, we can work towards improving maternal health and preventing future tragedies.
