Document Type
DNP Project
Department
School of Nursing
Date of Degree
Spring 2025
Degree
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Primary Advisor
Mary Jean Schumann, DNP, MBA, RN, CPNP-PC, FAAN
Keywords
incarceration; pregnancy; perinatal care
Abstract
Background: Maternal mortality rate and the rate of incarcerated women are significantly higher in the U.S. than in comparable nations, with Georgia's rates exceeding the national average. The U.S. and Georgia do not meet the internationally accepted standards for women in prisons, the Bangkok Rules. The Georgia Women's CARE Act seeks to reduce rates of incarcerated pregnant individuals by allowing sentence deferment, alternative sentencing, and eliminating or reducing cash bail when appropriate. The bill also establishes standards for tracking pregnant incarcerated women through federal and state prisons and jails.
Aims: This policy analysis and advocacy project aims to bring awareness for the Women's CARE Act, advocate for incarcerated women's rights, engage with legislators in Georgia to discuss the importance of legislative changes to incarcerated pregnant women, and garner support for the Georgia Women's CARE Act.
Methods: The author developed relationships with legislators and other key stakeholders, including non-profits and advocacy groups. Interactions were tracked, details such as participants and outcomes were documented, and an analysis of each engagement was performed.
Results: Legislators from both Republican and Democratic parties were approached to provide information on the substandard prenatal care provided to incarcerated pregnant women and the opportunity to reform the standards of care and treatment of these individuals. Relationships were developed with pertinent legislators and other advocacy groups.
Conclusions: Legislators were generally open to improving the conditions of incarcerated pregnant women and creating standardized protocols for perinatal care. Some legislators were not aware of the lack of prenatal care in jails. The legislators shared appreciation for women's healthcare providers advocating on this issue.
Implications: The author recommends continued advocacy to pass legislation in Georgia that meets the standards set by the Bangkok Rules. Additionally, legislation should facilitate data collection for pregnant incarcerated women, including prenatal care visits, delivery methods, complications, and adherence to care standards.
Copyright Notice
©2025 Allegra Walker. All rights reserved.
Recommended Citation
Crews Walker, A. R. (2025). Reducing Rates and Improving Care of Incarcerated Pregnant People in Georgia through the Georgia Women's CARE Act: A Policy Analysis and Advocacy Project. , (). Retrieved from https://hsrc.himmelfarb.gwu.edu/son_dnp/193
Open Access
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