The South Dakota Department of Health has reported that “prenatal care deserts” are a significant factor behind the state’s increasing infant mortality rate.
During a recent Government Operations and Audit Committee meeting, Secretary Melissa Magstadt highlighted concerns about the infant mortality rate, which stood at 7.4 percent in 2020, higher than the national average of 5.7 percent.
The state’s Infant Mortality Committee has found that low education levels in the eastern part and poverty in the west are the primary risk factors for infant mortality.
Magstadt pointed out an increase in cases of congenital syphilis and unsafe sleeping practices as contributing factors.
Lack of maternal care services in certain areas, notably in the western half of the state, has led to an “OBGYN desert,” creating challenges for expectant mothers in those regions.
To address these issues, the Department of Health is collaborating with Avera Health on a rural maternity care project, supported by a $4 million grant called RMOMS, aimed at improving maternal care in underserved areas.