Authors: National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH)

Publication Year: 2026

Keywords: Culturally Informed Care, Health Care Access, Maternal Mortality and Morbidity, Social Determinants of Health (SDOH)

Abstract: American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) people face a maternal mortality crisis, with pregnancy-related death rates 4 times higher than non-Hispanic White people. AI/AN-led Maternal Mortality Review Committees (MMRCs) review AI/AN pregnancy-associated deaths by incorporating AI/AN representation such as Elders, Tribal leaders, UIO leaders, and health officials. UIOs play a crucial role by providing insights into social, cultural, and systemic factors affecting urban AI/AN pregnancy and postpartum health. Key challenges include time-limited funding cycles, legislative exclusion of Tribes and UIOs in MMRC-enabling laws, and data gaps due to AI/AN misidentification. Policy recommendations emphasize passing the Data to Save Moms Act, ensuring long-term funding, and supporting Tribal and UIO inclusion on state MMRCs.

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Type of Resource: NCUIH products (infographs, urban data reports, etc..)