While the United States ranked poorly overall for maternal health among developed countries, Chester County is among the counties that are in the “very low” risk category. That assessment results from a maternal vulnerability index compiled by Surgo Ventures, a Washington, D.C., healthcare- and social-issue advocacy nonprofit. The data were reported by Patch.

“When it comes to a mother’s health and survival, the United States fares worst among high-income countries,” said Surgo Ventures CEO Dr. Sema K. Sgaier.

The new index ranges from zero to 100 and is based on 43 indicators. A lower score indicates a lesser likelihood of poor pregnancy outcomes such as preeclampsia, premature birth, and maternal death.

Chester County ranked among the safest counties nationwide for maternal health with an index score of 3. For comparison, Pennsylvania as a whole scored a 58.

In separate categories, Chester County scored highest in physical health with an index score of 2 and general healthcare with a score of 3.

Meanwhile, the county’s socioeconomic determinants index score is 13, reproductive health care is 22, physical environment is 31, and mental health and substance abuse index score is the highest at 34.

Read more about maternal vulnerability at Patch.