Black Maternal Mortality in Illinois: Wrongful Death Lawsuits and Seeking Justice 

 Posted on August 18, 2023 in Medical Malpractice

Black maternal mortality rates in the United States have long been a concern, and the state of Illinois is no exception. Black women face a significantly higher risk of maternal death compared to their white peers due to a variety of factors, including disparities in healthcare and systemic racial bias. Today, we will explore the prevalence of lackluster maternal care for black women in Illinois and explore the option of filing a wrongful death to seek justice in the wake of a childbirth-related death. A compassionate personal injury lawyer is ready to assist you as you navigate this difficult time for you and your family. 

The Prevalence of Lackluster Maternal Care for Black Women in Illinois

Black maternal maternity rates in Illinois are distressingly high. According to a recent study by the Illinois Department of Health, the maternal mortality rate for black women in the state is approximately three times higher than that of white women. This alarming disparity points to systemic issues within the healthcare system, including barriers to access, racial bias, and inadequate prenatal and postpartum care.

Factors contributing to this disparity include:

• Socioeconomic challenges

• Discrimination in healthcare settings

• Limited access to quality healthcare facilities

• Preexisting health conditions that are more prevalent among black women

Additionally, implicit bias and stereotypes among healthcare providers may lead to delayed medical interventions and critical gaps in appropriate care.

Filing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

When a maternal death occurs due to negligence or medical malpractice during childbirth, it may be possible for a personal representative of the mother, such as a spouse or parent, to file a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of the deceased mother. Wrongful death lawsuits aim to hold healthcare providers, hospitals, and other parties accountable for their actions or lack thereof that led to the tragic loss of life.

To file such a lawsuit, the personal representative must show that the medical professionals deviated from the accepted standard of care and that deviation directly resulted in maternal death. Medical records, professional testimony, and other evidence may be necessary to establish negligence or medical malpractice.

Contact a Chicago Wrongful Death Attorney

Black maternal mortality rates in Illinois underscore the urgent need for healthcare system reform, addressing systemic racial bias, and ensuring that all pregnant women receive equal, comprehensive, and culturally competent care. Contact the Hyde Park, IL wrongful death lawyer with Kadzai Law Group, LLC for compassionate counselors in your wrongful death case. Call 312-229-0050 for a free consultation. 

Source - https://dph.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/idph/files/maternal-mortality-in-illinois.pdf