Sep 13, 2023
Jackson, MS – A new report from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention shows that under Tate Reeves, Mississippi has the highest infant mortality rate at 9.4% exceeding the national rate by almost 4%. Another report shows that the maternal mortality for Black women has increased 25% on Reeves’ watch.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Press@Mississippidemocrats.org
September 13, 2023
ICYMI: Under Tate Reeves, Mississippi Has The Highest Infant Mortality Rate In The Country
Jackson, MS – A new report from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention shows that under Tate Reeves, Mississippi has the highest infant mortality rate at 9.4% exceeding the national rate by almost 4%. Another report shows that the maternal mortality for Black women has increased 25% on Reeves’ watch.
Last year, the Delta lost its only neonatal intensive care unit and Singing River Health System in Gulfport had to stop delivering babies due to staff lay-offs. Last month, four more hospitals announced plans to end inpatient care, which State Health Officer Dr. Dan Edney equates to a hospital closure.
Nearly half of the state’s 74 hospitals are at risk of closing with 25 of those being at risk of immediate closure. Last month, Greenwood Mayor McAdams warned that hospitals across the state are “on the chopping block” because of Tate Reeves’ failure to expand Medicaid after Greenwood Leflore Hospital went up for lease for the second time in two years.
“While Tate Reeves is remodeling the governor’s mansion with lemon trees and meditation gardens on the taxpayers’ dime, mothers and babies are dying from a lack of healthcare, hospitals, and prenatal care,” said Andre Wagner, Executive Director of the Mississippi Democratic Party. “Mississippi’s health care system is on the brink of collapse under Tate Reeves and he could not be bothered to say a word about it.”
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About Mississippi Democratic Party:
The Mississippi Democratic Party is dedicated to advancing progressive values, fostering inclusive policies, and promoting equal representation for all Mississippians. As the state's leading Democratic organization, we work tirelessly to build a strong and diverse coalition, advocate for meaningful change, and support Democratic candidates who champion social justice, economic fairness, and access to quality healthcare and education. Together, we strive to create a brighter future for Mississippi by ensuring that every voice is heard and every vote counts.