In the United States, people are three times more likely to die from preventable pregnancy and birth-related causes compared to similar high-income countries. Most of these deaths happen within the first year after giving birth. Rates of maternal mortality are even higher for Black and Hispanic/Latina birthing people. Having health insurance and being able to visit the doctor are important elements in reducing these high rates of maternal death. However, millions lose access to their healthcare coverage shortly after giving birth. During the COVID-19 pandemic, changes to Medicaid coverage allowed birthing people to keep their health insurance for up to 12 months after giving birth.

The Postpartum Outcomes and Extension of Medicaid (POEM for Equity) study is working on understanding how COVID-19-related changes in health insurance affected access to pregnancy and postpartum health care. The study uses interviews and healthcare data to provide real-time insights on changes to maternal and postpartum health access with particular attention to access for certain groups of people who are greatly impacted by these Medicaid coverage changes, such as immigrants, Black, and Hispanic/Latina birthing people.