FCC: Broadband Gaps Worsen Maternal Care Across U.S.

WASHINGTON, Dec. 17, 2024 – The absence of broadband can create serious health consequences for expectant mothers, according to new data from the Federal Communications Commission.

The FCC's updated Maternal Health Mapping Platform, launched Friday, shows how limited connectivity can deepen healthcare gaps by restricting access to telehealth, prenatal care, and critical health information.

“Broadband is a distinct social determinant of health,” the FCC said in its 21-page release, announcing the updated platform, which now includes new datasets on maternal health, chronic disease, opioid use, and social determinants of health.