A Dec. 11 article cites U.S. News rankings of 23 NC hospitals as best in the country for maternity care . Thirteen were not ranked and were not recognized as high-performing.
Your article did not mention that 20 of NC’s 100 counties do not have a hospital, 35 lack ICU beds and 21 are considered maternity healthcare deserts where there are no OB-GYNs or nurse midwives.
The maternity health issue is particularly concerning because of NC’s new abortion law . Reports from states that have restricted abortion procedures are also restricting training opportunities for medical residents.
Data shows that fewer medical students are applying for residencies in states with these restrictions, preferring to go to states where they can get comprehensive training. They stay in those states to work. I challenge the legislature to address this issue and show they really care about maternal health.
Janice Woychik, Chapel Hill
Ethics anyone?
Perhaps it would be a good idea to require anyone running for public office to take a class in ethics. A high school ethics requirement might be beneficial as well.