Friend –

Even in the best of circumstances, pregnancy and the postpartum time period can be nerve wracking. For too many women, they’re downright dangerous. That’s why I’m so proud of Doug for sponsoring the Healthy MOM Act in the Senate. If you agree that all mothers deserve support and comprehensive care during and after pregnancy, click here.

I’ve had the privilege of getting to know women across the country over the past few years. Their stories, as well as those I’ve heard from friends and other women in my family over the course of my life, can be shocking. They often break my heart. And the things I hear about – the complications, financial stress, and even death? They’re usually preventable.

In states like Alabama, where only 29 of our 67 counties have labor & delivery wards and rural hospitals are closing, it’s women who are poor, black, and rural who suffer the most. The Healthy MOM Act will help make both mothers and infants healthier by ensuring that women have access to coverage before, during, and after birth – so that they are not discouraged from seeking care by high costs and inadequate plans. It will also make it possible for women who can’t afford insurance to stay healthy and monitor their health both before and after giving birth.

A woman with special Medicaid coverage due to pregnancy who has a baby today, September 18, will lose her coverage on November 30 – even though many common complications don't occur until well into the first year after giving birth. Under the Healthy MOM Act, she would be covered for twelve months after childbirth, making it possible to detect issues early and more affordable to seek care.

The sad truth is that women die when they don’t have access to the care they need. This is legislation that will save lives right here in Alabama. Contribute here so Doug can keep fighting for women across the country.

Louise