Maternal deaths in Washington increased between 2021 and 2022, with most being preventable, according to the new Maternal Mortality Review Panel (MMRP) Report from the Department of Health. Behavioral health-related issues, such as suicide and overdose, accounted for nearly half of these deaths, while COVID-19 was the second leading cause. The report highlights significant disparities, revealing that American Indian and Alaska Native communities had the highest maternal mortality rates, with a risk 7.3 times greater than non-Hispanic white individuals. Rural residents and those on Medicaid also faced higher mortality rates compared to their urban and privately insured counterparts.

The report states that 82% of pregnancy-related deaths were preventable, with underlying causes including care quality and access to healthcare. Recommendations for the Washington State Legislature and other groups include improving healthcare quality, enhancing community support services, and ensuring culturally relevant care. To combat COVID-19-related maternal deaths, health officials recommend vaccination for all pregnant individuals. The Department of Health publishes maternal mortality reports every three years as mandated by the state legislature.