I am examining how Medicaid coverage influences maternal and infant mortality in the U.S., while drawing global comparisons to explore how healthcare access and public policy affect health disparities. The project also aims to incorporate the impact of the 2022 overturning of Roe v. Wade, analyzing how the rollback of federal abortion protections may compound risks for marginalized birthing populations, especially in states with limited maternal healthcare infrastructure.
The methodology involved extensive policy and literature review, as well as attempted outreach to key stakeholders. I contacted directors of programs such as Nurture NJ, PICHC (NY), the PA Perinatal Quality Collaborative, and the Maternal Wellness Initiative at the University of Pennsylvania to request interviews and qualitative insights. Despite multiple emails and follow-up phone calls, I did not receive responses. This may reflect limited administrative capacity, strict communication protocols, or high demand on leadership in understaffed public health settings—an observation that further underscores systemic challenges in maternal health work.
This project merges data analysis, community health research, and policy review to develop informed, equity-driven maternal and infant health reform recommendations in New Jersey and beyond.