Unless you know someone whose baby was born prematurely, being born a few weeks early probably doesn’t seem like a big issue. With amazing health-related technology and the world-class care of neonatal intensive care units, most babies born before their nine months are able to go home.
But the facts are that prematurity is the leading cause of newborn death and a major cause of lifelong disability. According to the Institute of Medicine, preterm birth also is costing our nation at least $26.2 billion annually. It’s impossible to quantify the costs for families — emotional costs that go well beyond medical bills.
That’s why the March of Dimes in South Carolina is actively working to ensure coverage of pregnant women through South Carolina Children Health Insurance (SCHIP). Access to health care coverage and enrollment into good prenatal care is crucial to improving birth outcomes.
Because November is Prematurity Awareness Month, we especially urge Gov. Mark Sanford and the state Legislature to take immediate action on all 2010 legislation that focuses on and invests in the health of pregnant women and babies. Doing so will help reduce health care costs, strengthen our communities, and ensure that more babies in the Palmetto State survive and thrive.
Linda Godwin
The Greater Lake City Area March for Babies chairwoman
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