While the United States generally ranked poorly for maternal health among developed countries, Bucks County is among the counties in the “very-low” risk category. That assessment results from a maternal vulnerability index compiled by Surgo Ventures, a Washington, D.C. healthcare- and social-issue advocacy nonprofit. The data were reported in the Patch.
“When it comes to a mother’s health and survival, the United States fares worst among high-income countries,” said Surgo Ventures CEO Dr. Sema K. Sgaier.
The new index ranges from zero to 100 and is based on 43 indicators. A lower score indicates a lesser likelihood of poor pregnancy outcomes such as preeclampsia, premature birth, and maternal death.
Bucks County is among the safest counties nationwide for maternal health, with an index score of 3. For comparison, Pennsylvania as a whole scored a 58.
In separate categories, Bucks County scored highest in general healthcare with an index score of 1 and physical health with 8.
Meanwhile, the county’s socioeconomic determinants index score is 10, reproductive health care is 18, physical environment is 27, and mental health and substance abuse index score is the highest at 37.
Read more about maternal vulnerability rankings in the Patch.
