Tom Harkin: “The lack of progress in reducing maternal morbidity and mortality is unacceptable. This committee strongly supports the…”

“The lack of progress in reducing maternal morbidity and mortality is unacceptable. This committee strongly supports the goals identified at the summit, including expanding the CDC's safe motherhood initiatives. We must look at the public health importance of pregnancy to women's health in the 21st century, the magnitude and impact of short-term and long-term pregnancy-related complications, and national strategies to close the gaps in research, data collection and quality care. CDC has taken an important lead in this area. In addition, I look forward to working with the Senator and the General Accounting Office to document the existing state of research and knowledge about the impact of pregnancy on women's health so that we can have a blueprint for closing the gaps in women's health.”