Impact of closing rural hospitals on maternal health
Effect of Losing Hospital-Based Obstetric Services on Maternal Health in Rural Communities
This study looks at how shutting down maternity services in rural hospitals affects the health of mothers, especially focusing on differences based on race, ethnicity, and education, to help improve care and support for moms in these areas.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University of New York at Albany NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albany, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10450398 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the closure of hospital-based obstetric services in rural areas affects maternal health outcomes. It focuses on understanding the disparities in access to care and how these closures may lead to increased rates of severe maternal morbidity and mortality. By analyzing birth certificate records and various policy factors, the study aims to identify the direct and indirect effects of losing obstetric care on mothers, particularly considering race, ethnicity, and education levels. The findings will help inform public policies to mitigate the negative impacts of hospital closures.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include mothers living in rural areas who have experienced or are at risk of losing access to hospital-based obstetric care.
Not a fit: Patients living in urban areas or those who have consistent access to hospital-based obstetric services may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved maternal health outcomes and better healthcare policies for rural communities.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that access to hospital-based care significantly impacts maternal health outcomes, suggesting that this study builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
Albany, United States
- State University of New York at Albany — Albany, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ho, Chun-Yu — State University of New York at Albany
- Study coordinator: Ho, Chun-Yu
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.