WASHINGTON – Blue Cross Blue Shield Association President and CEO Kim Keck issued the following statement today in response to the reintroduction of the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act.

“Every person deserves to have the best care at all stages of their pregnancy, regardless of the color of their skin. With the continued rise of preventable pregnancy-related deaths in the United States, we applaud the reintroduction of the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act as a vital step toward addressing our nation’s maternal health crisis and advancing maternal health equity.

“This comprehensive legislation holds the promise to combat the underlying drivers of maternal health disparities by providing meaningful investments in care, helping save the lives of people across the country. By bolstering the perinatal workforce, addressing social determinants of health, prioritizing maternal mental health and leveraging technology, amongst other critical actions prioritized in this important legislation, we can help ensure a better system of health for everyone.”