Latest news with #prenatalcare
Associated Press
4 days ago
- Health
- Associated Press
New online tool helps women on Medicaid find prenatal care and family planning
At the University of Mississippi Medical Center, one researcher's full-time job for the past nine months has been to find out which clinics around the state offer different kinds of women's health care, and whether they accept various forms of Medicaid. The final result is a recently launched database aimed at helping women locate the nearest clinic that can offer the care they need. The work that went into creating it highlights a pervasive problem: Even making an appointment can be a barrier that keeps women from improving their lives. 'We Need to Talk' is a compilation of all Mississippi clinics offering prenatal care – specifying which ones also offer family planning, and whether they take Medicaid insurance, Medicaid waivers and see women whose Medicaid applications are pending. There is also a hotline designed to give additional support to anyone having questions or feeling overwhelmed about the process. 'Having gone through the work, it was remarkable. It wasn't easy to figure out where you should go for care,' said Dr. Thomas Dobbs, former state health officer and dean of the John D. Bower School of Population Health at UMMC, who oversaw the project. 'And that should be one of the most basic bits of information we have.' The idea was born from the recent 900% increase in babies born with syphilis, Dobbs explained, which he called a 'canary in a coal mine' signaling more danger to come. An investigation into the epidemic showed that one of the driving factors was delayed prenatal care, caused in large part by inaccessible information and concerns about cost, Dobbs said. Finding reproductive and prenatal care can be difficult for several reasons. For one thing, there are many different kinds of clinics in Mississippi, making it hard for patients to know what to search for. The list includes federally qualified health centers, county health department clinics and private OB-GYNs. Another reason is that many clinics don't specify online whether they take Medicaid, much less what their policy is on specific or temporary Medicaid coverage. Calling doesn't always guarantee patients a comprehensive or accurate answer. The new database is an initiative of UMMC's Myrlie Evers-Williams Institute – housed in the Jackson Medical Mall – which is committed to eliminating health disparities by studying the intersection of health and social issues. The institute has a clinic on site that practices what's called 'social medicine,' a key element of eliminating those disparities, the institute's executive director Victoria Gholar explained. 'If you have a patient who has asthma and they're living in a situation where mold is in their environment, it will really be hard for them to get better,' Gholar said. 'Or, if we have a patient who has to use an electronic (medical) device, and their electricity is no longer available because they weren't able to take care of their utility bill, then we try to work with them and connect them to resources that might be able to help.' The institute employs a wide range of professionals who work on health from a non-clinical standpoint, such as researchers, community engagers, social workers and registered dietitians. It hosts events like food drives and offers free support from budgeting strategies to meal preparation for those with conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. Aside from knowing what to search for, finding clinics that accept Medicaid can also be complicated because Mississippi Medicaid eligibility is constantly changing for a woman based on her age and circumstance – what kinds of services she's seeking, as well as whether she's pregnant. Medicaid eligibility in Mississippi is among the strictest in the nation, with one exception – pregnant women. That means many low-income women only become eligible for Medicaid once pregnant. And since an application can take up to eight weeks to be processed, the chances that a woman in this situation will be able to use her newly acquired Medicaid insurance in the first trimester are slim. A law that would cut out this interim period and allow low-income pregnant women to be immediately seen by a doctor passed the Legislature in 2024, but was never implemented because of legislative errors. The policy went back through the Legislature in 2025, passed overwhelmingly again, but is not yet in effect. Some doctors already see women whose Medicaid application is pending, and the UMMC tool specifies at which clinics that's the case. Women of reproductive age seeking reproductive health care are also eligible for leniency in the typical Medicaid stipulations. These women can apply for a Medicaid family planning waiver, which allows them to access Medicaid for family planning purposes, even if they don't qualify for general Medicaid coverage. The income requirement for pregnancy Medicaid and the family planning waiver is a household income of less than 194% of the federal poverty level, or about $2,500 a month for one person in 2025. Dobbs, who has been the main point person on the project, said he hopes the online database is one more resource improving health care accessibility and women's health metrics in Mississippi. 'This isn't about getting patients to UMMC at all,' Dobbs said. 'It's about empowering patients to be able to get the care they need where they live.' ___ This story was originally published by Mississippi Today and distributed through a partnership with The Associated Press.
Yahoo
02-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
UAE Prenatal Testing Market to Triple by 2033: Driven by Tech Advancements and Maternal Health Awareness
Key drivers include increasing maternal age, healthcare advancements, and government support for early fetal screening. The market benefits from the rise in medical tourism and global diagnostic partnerships, despite challenges like cultural sensitivities and a lack of genetic counseling. Major players such as Eurofins, Roche, and Illumina enhance the UAE's prenatal care through innovative technologies and strategic partnerships. UAE Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing Market Dublin, June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "UAE Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing Market Size and Share Analysis - Growth Trends and Forecast Report 2025-2033" report has been added to UAE Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing Market is expected to reach US$ 64.46 million by 2033 from US$ 21.04 million in 2024, with a CAGR of 13.25% from 2025 to 2033. The UAE's non-invasive prenatal testing market is growing due to a number of factors, including growing maternal age, better access to healthcare, increasing awareness, government assistance, the need for early fetal screening, and a rise in incidences of genetic disorders. UAE Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing Industry OverviewDue to improvements in genetic screening technology and growing awareness among pregnant parents, the non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) market in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is expanding steadily. NIPT uses a straightforward blood test from the mother to safely and effectively identify chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus. Because of its accuracy, early detection potential, and low danger in comparison to more conventional invasive techniques like amniocentesis, it has becoming more and more popular in the United Arab Emirates. Both public and commercial healthcare organizations are implementing NIPT as a common prenatal screening procedure as healthcare standards rise and prenatal care becomes more maternal age is a major risk factor for chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome, which raises the need for accurate prenatal screening and is one of the main causes driving this industry's rise. Furthermore, expanding insurance coverage, the presence of foreign healthcare practitioners, and the UAE government's initiatives to improve genetic health services all help to increase NIPT's accessibility and acceptability. The market is also supported by the nation's growing medical tourism industry, which draws patients from nearby areas looking for cutting-edge prenatal diagnostics, especially in locations like Dubai and Abu its promise, the UAE NIPT industry is beset by issues including low awareness among specific demographic groups and the exorbitant expense of testing for those without insurance. These obstacles are being addressed, meanwhile, by continued public education campaigns, the incorporation of genetics into national healthcare plans, and partnerships with international diagnostics firms. With advancements in bioinformatics and non-invasive technologies anticipated to further improve the precision and reach of prenatal screening services, the NIPT sector in the United Arab Emirates is well-positioned for sustained development as precision medicine continues to Drivers for the UAE Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing Market Supportive Government PoliciesThe UAE's non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) sector is expanding thanks in large part to supportive government legislation. As part of its larger national healthcare policy, the government has made maternal and fetal health a top priority, investing heavily in early diagnostic technologies and updating hospital infrastructure. The National Genome Strategy and the UAE's Vision 2031 initiatives center on incorporating cutting-edge genetic technology into standard medical treatment. While regulatory agencies make ensuring that these technologies are used in a safe and moral manner, public health campaigns also seek to increase awareness about prenatal screening. These initiatives, together with advantageous laws and alliances with international biotech companies, are creating a healthcare climate that encourages innovation and the broad use of NIPT throughout the Tourism GrowthThe non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) industry in the United Arab Emirates is growing due in large part to the rise of medical tourism, particularly in locations like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The nation has established itself as a regional center for top-notch, specialized medical treatment, drawing clients from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The UAE's highly developed healthcare system, internationally recognized facilities, and access to state-of-the-art diagnostic tools like NIPT attract patients from outside. For pregnant moms looking for early and precise fetal screening, prenatal care facilities that offer individualized attention and minimal wait periods are particularly alluring. The UAE's standing as a destination for cutting-edge prenatal diagnostics is further reinforced by government funding for healthcare tourism and continuous initiatives to enhance service of Global Diagnostic CompaniesOne of the main factors propelling the non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) industry's expansion in the United Arab Emirates is the arrival of international diagnostic and genomics firms. To increase access to cutting-edge prenatal screening technology, foreign companies are establishing strategic alliances with regional healthcare providers, labs, and governmental organizations. The accuracy, speed, and scope of NIPT services are improved by these partnerships' introduction of cutting-edge technologies including high-throughput sequencing and AI-powered data processing. Furthermore, foreign actors raise the general level of prenatal care in the United Arab Emirates by assisting with knowledge transfer, workforce training, and adherence to international quality standards. The country's larger objectives of becoming a regional leader in precision healthcare and genomic medicine are supported by this infusion of knowledge and in the UAE Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing Market Cultural and Religious SensitivitiesThe UAE's adoption of non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) is significantly hampered by cultural and religious sensitivities. The ethical ramifications of prenatal testing, especially with regard to possible judgments about pregnancy termination, might restrict acceptability in an area where traditional values and religious views are crucial in family and healthcare decisions. Because of religious beliefs about the sanctity of life, worries about disrupting natural processes, or fears of social disapproval, some families might be reluctant to undergo genetic testing. Even when NIPT is advised by a doctor, these issues may cause reluctance to choose it. Building understanding and confidence in prenatal screening necessitates ethical counseling, culturally relevant public education, and collaboration with community and religious of Genetic Counseling ServicesOne major obstacle to the efficient use of non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) in the United Arab Emirates is the lack of qualified genetic counselors. Even though NIPT's technology is sophisticated and becoming more widely available, many patients may not have the assistance they need to understand complicated genetic data. Expectant parents may misinterpret test findings without the right counseling, which might cause needless worry or poor choices. In a culturally diverse nation like the United Arab Emirates, where language proficiency and cultural awareness are crucial for successful communication, this disparity is especially significant. Existing healthcare providers are likewise strained by the shortage of skilled workers. To remedy this deficiency, it is imperative to integrate remote or tele-counseling services, expand training programs, and provide incentives for genetic counseling expertise. Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 200 Forecast Period 2024 - 2033 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $21 Million Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2033 $64.5 Million Compound Annual Growth Rate 13.2% Regions Covered United Arab Emirates Report Scope: UAE Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing Market Segment Component Instruments Kits and Reagents Services Application Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21) Edwards Syndrome (Trisomy 18) Patau Syndrome (Trisomy 13) Turner Syndrome Other Applications End User Hospitals Diagnostic Labs The key players have been analyzed by: Overview Key Persons Recent Development & Strategies Financial Insights Key Players Analyzed: Eurofins Scientific F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd Invitae Corporation Illumina Inc. Natera Inc. Centogene NV Qiagen For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment UAE Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing Market CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Medscape
21-05-2025
- Health
- Medscape
Rural Patients Lose Options as Birth Facilities Shut Down
WINNER, S.D. — Sophie Hofeldt planned to receive prenatal care and give birth at her local hospital, 10 minutes from her house. Instead, she's driving more than three hours round trip for her appointments. The hospital, Winner Regional Health, recently joined the increasing number of rural hospitals shuttering their birthing units. 'It's going to be a lot more of a stress and a hassle for women to get the health care that they need because they have to go so much further,' said Hofeldt, who has a June 10 due date for her first child. Hofeldt said longer drives mean spending more on gas — and a higher risk of not making it to the hospital in time. 'My main concern is having to give birth in a car,' she said. More than a hundred rural hospitals have stopped delivering babies since 2021, according to the Center for Healthcare Quality and Payment Reform, a nonprofit organization. Such closures are often blamed on shortages of staff and money. About 58% of South Dakota counties have no birthing facilities, the second-highest rate among states, after North Dakota, according to March of Dimes. And the South Dakota health department says pregnant women and infants in the state, especially those who are Black or Native American, experience high rates of complications and death. Winner Regional Health serves rural communities, including parts of the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation, in South Dakota and Nebraska. It delivered 107 babies last year, down from 158 in 2021, said CEO Brian Williams. The nearest birthing hospitals are in rural towns an hour or more from Winner. But several women said driving to those facilities would take them through areas without reliable cellphone service, which could be a problem if they have an emergency along the way. KFF Health News spoke with five patients from the Winner area who planned to deliver at Avera St. Mary's Hospital in Pierre, about 90 miles from Winner, or at one of the large medical centers in Sioux Falls, 170 miles away. Hofeldt and her boyfriend drive every three weeks to her prenatal appointments at the Pierre hospital, which serves the small capital city and vast surrounding rural area. She'll have to make weekly trips closer to her due date. Neither of their jobs provides paid time off for such appointments. 'When you have to go to Pierre, you have to take almost the whole day off,' said Hofeldt, who was born at the Winner hospital. That means forfeiting pay while spending extra money on travel. Not everyone has gas money, let alone access to a car, and bus services are scarce in rural America. Some women also need to pay for child care during their appointments. And when the baby comes, family members may need to pay for a hotel. Amy Lueking, Hofeldt's doctor in Pierre, said when patients can't overcome these barriers, obstetricians can give them home monitoring devices and offer phone- or video-based care. Patients can also receive prenatal care at a local hospital or clinic before connecting with a doctor at a birthing hospital, Lueking said. However, some rural areas don't have access to telehealth. And some patients, such as Hofeldt, don't want to split up their care, form relationships with two doctors, and deal with logistics like transferring medical records. During a recent appointment, Lueking glided an ultrasound device over Hofeldt's uterus. The 'woosh-woosh' rhythm of the fetal heartbeat thumped over the monitor. 'I think it's the best sound in the whole wide world,' Lueking said. Hofeldt told Lueking she wanted her first delivery to be 'as natural as possible.' But ensuring a birth goes according to plan can be difficult for rural patients. To guarantee they make it to the hospital on time, some schedule an induction, in which doctors use medicine or procedures to stimulate labor. Katie Larson lives on a ranch near Winner in the town of Hamill, population 14. She had hoped to avoid having her labor induced. Larson wanted to wait until her contractions began naturally, then drive to Avera St. Mary's in Pierre. But she scheduled an induction in case she didn't go into labor by April 13, her due date. Larson ended up having to reschedule for April 8 to avoid a conflict with an important cattle sale she and her husband were preparing for. 'People are going to be either forced to pick an induction date when it wasn't going to be their first choice or they're going to run the risk of having a baby on the side of the road,' she said. Lueking said it's very rare for people to give birth while heading to the hospital in a car or ambulance. But last year, she said, five women who planned to deliver in Pierre ended up delivering in other hospitals' emergency rooms after rapidly progressing labor or weather made it too risky to drive long distances. Nanette Eagle Star's plan was to deliver at the Winner hospital, five minutes from home, until the hospital announced it would be closing its labor and delivery unit. She then decided to give birth in Sioux Falls, because her family could save money by staying with relatives there. Eagle Star's plan changed again when she went into early labor and the weather was too dangerous to drive or take a medical helicopter to Sioux Falls. 'It happened so fast, in the middle of a snowstorm,' she said. Eagle Star delivered at the Winner hospital after all, but in the ER, without an epidural pain blocker since no anesthesiologist was available. It was just three days after the birthing unit closed. The end of labor and delivery services at Winner Regional Health isn't just a health issue, local women said. It also has emotional and financial impacts on the community. Eagle Star fondly recalls going to doctor appointments with her sisters when she was a child. As soon as they arrived, they'd head to a hallway with baby photos taped to the wall and begin 'a scavenger hunt' for Polaroids of themselves and their relatives. 'On both sides it was just filled with babies' pictures,' Eagle Star said. She remembers thinking, 'look at all these cute babies that were born here in Winner.' Hofeldt said many locals are sad their babies won't be born in the same hospital they were. Anora Henderson, a family physician, said a lack of maternity care can lead to poor outcomes for infants. Those babies may develop health problems that will require lifelong, often expensive care and other public support. 'There is a community effect,' she said. 'It's just not as visible and it's farther down the road.' Henderson resigned in May from Winner Regional Health, where she delivered vaginal births and assisted on cesarean sections. The last baby she delivered was Eagle Star's. To be designated a birthing hospital, facilities must be able to conduct C-sections and provide anesthesia 24/7, Henderson explained. Williams, the hospital's CEO, said Winner Regional Health hasn't been able to recruit enough medical professionals trained in those skills. For the last several years, the hospital was only able to offer birthing services by spending about $1.2 million a year on temporary physicians, he said, and it could no longer afford to do that. Another financial challenge is that many births at rural hospitals are covered by Medicaid, the federal and state program serving people with low incomes or disabilities. The program typically pays about half of what private insurers do for childbirth services, according to a 2022 report by the U.S. Government Accountability Office. Williams said about 80% of deliveries at Winner Regional Health were covered by Medicaid. Obstetric units are often the biggest financial drain on rural hospitals, and therefore they're frequently the first to close when a hospital is struggling, the GAO report said. Williams said the hospital still provides prenatal care and that he'd love to restart deliveries if he could hire enough staff. Henderson, the physician who resigned from the Winner hospital, has witnessed the decline in rural maternity care over decades. She remembers tagging along with her mother for appointments before her sister was born. Her mother traveled about 100 miles each way after the hospital in the town of Kadoka shuttered in 1979. Henderson practiced for nearly 22 years at Winner Regional Health, sparing women from having to travel to give birth like her mother did. Over the years, she took in new patients as a nearby rural hospital and then an Indian Health Service facility closed their birthing units. Then, Henderson's own hospital stopped deliveries. 'What's really frustrating me now is I thought I was going to go into family medicine and work in a rural area and that's how we were going to fix this, so people didn't have to drive 100 miles to have a baby,' she said.
