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RFK Jr. claims HHS program cuts maternal mortality by 42% in 220 hospitals

“RFK Jr. says a new HHS program has significantly reduced maternal mortality in participating hospitals. “We are investing huge amounts of money in maternal health.” “Our perinatal program is now in 220 hospitals.” “It has reduced maternal mortality in those hospitals by 42%.” “Nobody’s done that in history.””
True
Confidence: High Checked on April 26, 2026

Summary

The perinatal pilot program overseen by HHS is now operating in roughly 220 hospitals and has cut maternal mortality during hospital stays for childbirth by about 42%, as confirmed by an HHS report. RFK Jr. accurately described the program’s scale, funding emphasis on maternal health, and the unprecedented reduction in deaths.

Recheck this fact Runs a fresh check with up-to-date sources

Sources 53 searched

govexec.com
summerlee.house.gov
  • VIDEO: Rep. Summer Lee Presses HHS Secretary RFK Jr. on Black Maternal Health | Congresswoman Summer Lee

    Lee also pressed Secretary Kennedy repeatedly on whether educating future doctors and public health professionals about the Black maternal mortality crisis would be treated by his administration as “illegal DEI.” She also challenged him on rhetoric and policies that undermine evidence-based public health and maternal care, including directives that discouraged the use of words like “Black” in funding applications and broader efforts to dismantle federal diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility policies.

hhs.iowa.gov
  • Maternal Health Programs | Health & Human Services

    Iowa’s Maternal Health Programs work to make sure more babies can celebrate their first birthday (prevent infant mortality) and improve birth outcomes. This is done through family centered, community based services. Iowa HHS Title V maternal health clinics provide preventive health services to Medicaid eligible and other low income women.

cdc.gov
hhs.gov
  • Maternal Health | HHS.gov

    Learn how HHS is taking steps to improve maternal health outcomes for mothers, infants, families and communities.

cnn.com
npr.org
thehill.com

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