Which of the following statements is true about maternal mortality?

The statement indicating that a high rate of maternal mortality indicates a lack of healthcare access for mothers is true because maternal mortality rates are often reflective of the healthcare systems within a country. When these rates are high, it suggests that there are systemic issues, such as inadequate prenatal care, lack of skilled birth attendants, or insufficient emergency obstetric services, which significantly compromise maternal health. These factors highlight the barriers that mothers face in accessing necessary healthcare resources, leading to increased risks during pregnancy and childbirth.

Moreover, the relationship between maternal mortality and healthcare access is critical in understanding broader public health concerns. High maternal mortality rates can serve as a vital indicator of the overall effectiveness of health systems, particularly in relation to women's health and reproductive rights. Thus, addressing the issue of maternal mortality is essential for improving healthcare access and outcomes for mothers and their infants.