Medicaid Birth Outcomes

Reducing Preterm Cesarean Rates in Louisiana: Best Practices, Improved Outcomes, and Health Equity

Resources

• Environmental Public Health Tracking - Birth Outcomes
• Go the Full 40 Toolkit
• Transforming Maternal Health 

For more than a decade, Louisiana Medicaid has prioritized improving maternal and infant health by evaluating obstetric care practices and addressing health risks associated with cesarean deliveries. Although cesarean sections can be lifesaving in certain situations, they pose risks such as infections, longer recovery times, and complications in future pregnancies. Lowering cesarean rates can also reduce healthcare expenditures, as this surgical procedure is substantially more expensive than vaginal delivery. Potential cost savings could be reinvested into the healthcare system to optimize healthcare delivery and outcomes.

Collaborating with key stakeholders, including the Louisiana Perinatal Quality Collaborative, March of Dimes, the Louisiana Medicaid Advisory Committee, and the six Medicaid healthcare plans, has resulted in a significant decrease in preterm cesarean deliveries amongst this population. However, our diligence and prioritization of this matter must continue to address disparities in cesarean rates and health outcomes based on geographic and racial/ethnic differences. Continuing to implement evidence-based practices will promote safer, more equitable, and dignified birthing experiences, reducing morbidity and mortality within the broader context of maternal and infant health.