Mercer Times

Governor Phil Murphy has signed a new piece of legislation, S912/A3887, into law in New Jersey. This law mandates that healthcare professionals offer pregnant patients the opportunity to develop personalized postpartum care plans. These plans are intended to cater to each patient's unique needs and are to be discussed as early as the first trimester.

The law also requires maternity care facilities to provide postpartum care information before discharging patients at the end of a pregnancy, including those who have experienced stillbirth or pregnancy loss. The aim is to address preventable factors contributing to maternal mortality during the postpartum period.

Governor Murphy stated, “New Jersey has made significant progress over the last seven years in our work to reduce maternal and infant mortality, and our efforts have shown how increased care continuity and access to information can improve outcomes for families across our state.”

First Lady Tammy Murphy highlighted societal responsibilities, saying, "As a society, we must uplift our families and ensure they have the care and support they need."

Lisa Asare from the New Jersey Maternal and Infant Health Innovation Authority emphasized the importance of having a plan after pregnancy: “Having a plan and knowing how to seek medical advice following the end of a pregnancy is critical.”

Health Commissioner Kaitlan Baston added that this law would enhance planning by empowering patients with tailored information.

Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin remarked on how personalized plans enable anticipation of challenges during postpartum periods.

The primary sponsors include Senator Kristin Corrado, Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz, Assemblywoman Lisa Swain, and Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson. Senator Corrado noted that providing personalized postpartum care plans empowers mothers.

Senate Majority Leader Ruiz stressed that women deserve resources available during their postpartum journey. Assemblywoman Swain mentioned that many women never receive postpartum care but hoped this legislation would change that trend.

Assemblywoman Reynolds-Jackson pointed out disparities in minority communities regarding maternity care which this bill aims to address.

Supporters such as Debbie Haine Vijayvergiya from 2 Degrees Foundation expressed gratitude for addressing gaps in postpartum support through this legislation.

Julie Blumenfeld from New Jersey Affiliate of American College of Nurse-Midwives described it as a step forward for supporting families during vulnerable times.

Melissa J. Oparaku from Care Plus NJ commended the compassionate approach of this measure aimed at equitable care for all families.

Cathy Bennett from NJ Hospital Association praised Gov. Murphy's commitment to quality maternal care through collaboration among birthing hospitals statewide.

Jennifer M. Howard from League of Women Voters acknowledged ongoing progress while pointing out high maternal mortality rates affecting people of color disproportionately; she sees individualized plans as beneficial in reducing preventable fatalities.