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New Jersey's Maternal and Infant Health Report Card

In the latest assessment from March of Dimes, New Jersey has received a C+ grade for its maternal and infant health, primarily due to a preterm birth rate of 9.4%. This rating placed the state 10th among all U.S. states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. The Report Card was released on World Prematurity Day, which focuses on raising awareness about preterm births and their impacts.

Understanding the Findings

The Report Card evaluates various critical metrics related to maternal and infant health, including access to maternity care and preterm birth rates. Notably, New Jersey's preterm birth rate is slightly below the national average of 10.4%, which is a stark reflection of the challenges faced nationwide. However, while the state is outperforming the national average, there are serious disparities in outcomes.

Among the specific findings, the statistics reveal that Black mothers in New Jersey have a preterm birth rate of 13.0%, significantly higher than the 8.0% rate for White mothers. Furthermore, the state's infant mortality rate stands at 3.7 deaths per 1,000 live births, ranking New Jersey fourth nationally. Nevertheless, this figure conceals a troubling truth: Black infants face a mortality rate more than double that of other racial demographics in the state.

National Context

The national scenario is even more concerning, as the U.S. earned a D+ in the same report, indicating ongoing difficulties in addressing maternal and infant health crises. The findings reveal that the U.S. continues to grapple with a preterm birth crisis, with alarming statistics, especially among marginalized groups. For instance, babies born to Medicaid-insured mothers experience a higher preterm birth rate compared to their privately insured counterparts.

Expert Insights

Dr. Michael Warren, the Chief Medical and Health Officer at March of Dimes, expressed his frustration regarding stagnation in improving maternal health outcomes despite awareness of risk factors contributing to preterm births. He calls for a renewed commitment to research and better access to maternity care, emphasizing the need for improved policies to protect mothers and their infants.

Progress and Future Directions

On a more positive note, New Jersey has made significant advancements in maternal health policies. The state has implemented all six of the maternal and infant health initiatives that March of Dimes evaluated this year. These initiatives include expanding Medicaid coverage and extending care to one year postpartum, providing paid family leave, covering doula services, and conducting mental health screenings for mothers enrolled in Medicaid. Additionally, the establishment of a Maternal Mortality Review Committee focuses on analyzing and preventing maternal deaths in the state.

Shakira Williams-Linzey, Director of Maternal and Infant Health for March of Dimes in New Jersey, is proud of the state’s leadership in implementing effective maternal health policies. However, she acknowledges the persistent disparities affecting women of color and emphasizes that there is still considerable work to be done. Strengthening policies, enhancing access to care, and fostering community partnerships are crucial for ensuring that every family has a healthy start.

The Road Ahead

March of Dimes is advocating for national policies aimed at reinforcing the maternal health infrastructure, including the Preventing Maternal Deaths Act and the reauthorization of the PREEMIE Act. Continuous support for Medicaid postpartum coverage is also vital to ensuring that mothers receive the necessary care beyond childbirth.

In summary, while New Jersey demonstrates notable progress in maternal and infant health, the disparities and challenges faced by various communities highlight the urgent need for coordinated efforts at every level— from policies to community care—to create lasting improvements in health outcomes for mothers and infants alike. The complete 2025 Report Card can be accessed through the March of Dimes website for detailed insights into state-by-state performances and recommendations.