A National Emergency: Saving America's Moms and Babies
The United States has the highest rate of maternal deaths in the developed world—and it's rising. The maternal mortality rate has more than doubled since the early 1980s.
The U.S. spends an estimated $165.3 billion annually on avoidable medical expenses and lost economic productivity due to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Heartland Forward's Maternal & Child Health Center for Policy & Practice (MCH CPP) is driving change in the heartland and across America.
84% of maternal deaths in America are preventable
To save America's mothers by cutting America's maternal mortality in half by 2031
Our Playbook
Guided by the National Governors Association's proven playbook and building on The Economic Case for Investing in Maternal Health, the MCH CPP partners with policymakers, providers and community organizations to drive lasting improvements in care and support for moms at every step—because strong, healthy mothers build strong, healthy communities.
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Our Mission
Advancing Maternal Health, Strengthening Workforce and Improving Community Outcomes
Proven Policy Playbook
Applying a proven playbook in partnership with policymakers, providers and community organizations to advance maternal health.
Economic Impact
Building on the Economic Case for Investing in Maternal Health, proving that improved health outcomes directly strengthen state economies.
Proven Results
Using this approach, states have improved their maternal health rankings by nearly 20 positions in just 7 years.
What We Do
Advance Research
Demonstrating how maternal resilience and improved maternal health outcomes strengthen state economies. Building data-driven models that support effective solutions in rural areas.
Unite Local Leaders
Convening community health leaders and lawmakers to strengthen care pathways. Acting as a convener and technical expert—supporting initiatives like reopening labor and delivery units.
Effective Solutions
Equipping providers with the tools and policies needed to deliver team-based care. Integrating community health workers and doulas while addressing regulatory and staffing challenges.
Program News
Maternal Health Stakeholders Across Arkansas Convene to Renew Commitment to Accessible Care
Valuing the Midwifery Workforce with Heartland Forward's Maternal and Child Health Center for Policy and Practice
Heartland Forward Announces Zoe Maddox, Ph.D. as Director of Maternal and Child Health Center for Policy and Practice
Heartland Forward Launches Maternal and Child Health Center to Improve Health Outcomes in the Heartland
Protecting Youth Mental Health Across the Heartland: The Impact of Universal Mental Health Screenings in Illinois Schools
Our Team
Zoe Maddox
Director, MCH Center for Policy and Practice
Kara Osborne
Fellow, Maternal Health Initiative
A Heartland Forward Initiative
Heartland Forward is a non-profit, policy think-and-do tank that turns ideas into action for states and local communities. Our mission is to accelerate economic growth and change the narrative about the middle of the country.