A recent study reveals a significant gap in prenatal care based on insurance status, potentially impacting the early detection of congenital heart defects (CHDs) in developing fetuses. Researchers from Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago found that pregnant women with public insurance are less likely to receive crucial 20-week ultrasounds compared to those with private insurance.
The study, published in Prenatal Diagnosis, analyzed data from 496 pregnant women whose infants later required CHD surgery. Results showed that public insurance was associated with a 12.6% lower probability of prenatal diagnosis of CHDs. This disparity is largely attributed to a 13.2% lower likelihood of receiving a second-trimester ultrasound among publicly insured women.
Dr. Joyce Woo, the study’s lead author, emphasized the critical nature of the 20-week ultrasound in detecting birth defects. “All pregnant people must know that this test should not be missed,” she stated. The exam, which assesses major fetal organs, is covered by Medicaid but remains underutilized due to various barriers.
Factors contributing to this disparity include difficulties in appointment scheduling, transportation issues, inability to take time off work, and lack of childcare. The research team found that second-trimester ultrasound receipt mediated 39% of the relationship between public insurance and prenatal diagnosis.
This study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions to improve access to prenatal care, particularly for publicly insured women. Addressing these disparities could lead to earlier detection of CHDs, allowing for better preparation and potentially improved outcomes for affected infants.
See “Publicly insured pregnant women less likely to get 20-week ultrasounds” (September 23, 2024)