Segment 1: What's behind the statistics for maternal mortality in Missouri? Missouri ranks 42nd in the United States for maternal outcomes, with a number of pregnancy or childbirth related deaths per capita among the worst in the nation, according to a recent article in the Kansas City Star. Our guests say that's an indicator of poor health in the state overall. Tracy Russell , executive director, Mother & Child Health Coalition Beth Simpson , pediatrician, Children's Mercy Hospital Keri