Laura Garabedian

The United States has dramatically higher rates of maternal mortality and severe complications than other high-income countries, with particularly stark racial disparities. While many states have expanded insurance coverage and introduced new maternal health policies, there is limited research about whether these reforms are being implemented effectively or improving health outcomes. Working in Massachusetts, Professor Garabedian will partner with public and private insurers, state health agencies, hospitals, and practitioners to evaluate new maternal health policies—including coverage of doula services—and identify strategies that can significantly improve maternal health and reduce inequities.