Minnesota reports progress in efforts to reduce induced early elective childbirths.

The Minneap0lis Star Tribune reports that “a group of 85 Minnesota hospitals — which provide 99.8 percent of deliveries in the state — has instituted ‘hard stop’ policies that discourage medically induced labor unless there are legitimate medical reasons. Since 2010, they have reduced elective inductions occurring before 39 weeks gestation by a remarkable 94 percent.”

Public-health officials have that childbirth even a week ahead of schedule ”increases the risk of complications and the need for costly neonatal intensive care. ”

Improving care and saving money. Sounds good. Good old Scandinavian civic-minded Minnesota.