PIERRE, SD – The South Dakota Department of Health (DOH) has launched the Maternal and Infant Health Task Force, a statewide initiative to reduce preventable deaths among mothers and infants and to improve health outcomes for families across South Dakota. This multi-sector group, comprised of clinical providers, tribal representatives, state government officials, legislators, insurers, community leaders, and parents, will serve as the state’s central coordinating body for maternal and infant health strategies.
The Task Force aims to align systems, unite partners, and turn data into action through innovative, collaborative approaches that address health gaps and disparities
“South Dakota families deserve the best possible start, and that begins long before birth with healthy pregnancies and strong support systems,” said Secretary of Health Melissa Magstadt. “By using data effectively and working alongside partners across the state, we can improve outcomes and reduce preventable tragedies. This is not just a health issue, it’s a family issue that impacts us all.”
This year, the Task Force is prioritizing several initiatives to advance its mission. These include developing a five-year strategic plan, offering technical assistance and education to local stakeholders, and releasing an annual statewide report. The group also supports initiatives that promote safe sleep, postpartum care, mental health, and address root causes like housing, access to care, and economic stability. Central to this work is uplifting the voices of those with lived experience in pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care to help guide meaningful, person-centered solutions.
South Dakota’s infant mortality rate remains high, and pregnancy-associated mortality has more than doubled over the past decade, with marked disparities based on race, geography, and access to care. Notable concerns include:
- Rising sleep-related infant deaths: In 2023, 57% of these occurred in adult beds.
- Limited postpartum care: Only two-thirds of mothers consistently attend a postpartum visit.
- Barriers to well-being: Families report challenges related to mental health, housing, and access to services—all of which affect maternal and infant health.
The launch of the Task Force coincides with new data available through South Dakota’s updated Infant Mortality and Child Death Review (ICDR) Dashboard. The 2024 Infant Mortality Report (Provisional) highlights persistent disparities and urgent risk factors, reinforcing the need for coordinated solutions. Key findings include:
- 10-Year Data Trends (2014–2023): South Dakota’s rate has remained stable despite national declines.
- Top Causes of Death: Congenital malformations remain the leading cause, while unsafe sleep contributes to over one in five infant deaths.
- Preventable Losses: From 2019 to 2023, 23% of infant deaths were sleep-related, and 87% of those were considered preventable.
- Widening Disparities: Gaps in outcomes by race and ethnicity have grown significantly.
The work of the Maternal and Infant Health Task Force also supports South Dakota’s First 1000 Days initiative, which focuses on the critical window from pregnancy through a child’s second birthday. Care and support during this time have a lasting impact on physical, emotional, and mental development. Strengthening the first 1000 days helps build healthier families and communities across the state. Learn more at First 1000 Days.
The DOH encourages healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations to engage with the updated dashboard and explore the Infant Mortality report.
For more information, please visit the ICDR Webpage. For Data Requests, please contact the MCH Data Team at DOH.MCHdata@state.sd.us.
At the heart of the Department of Health’s mission is a simple goal: to protect and improve the health of all South Dakotans. The department is entrusted with the vital task of promoting wellness, preventing disease, and ensuring access to quality healthcare for all South Dakotans.
