The descriptions for this measure come from source: www.leapfroggroup.org.

"Data strongly demonstrates that early elective deliveries—scheduled cesarean sections or medical inductions performed prior to 39 weeks of gestation without medical necessity—carry risks to both babies and mothers. Early elective deliveries can result in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions, longer stays and higher costs to both patients and payers."

About this measure

Hospitals fully meet standards with a reported rate of early elective deliveries of 5 percent or less.

Scores are reported as:

1 = Willing to Report
2 = Some Progress
3 = Substantial Progress
4 = Fully Meets Standards

Note: In this case, a higher number is better.