H.R. 4150: Advancing Maternal Health Equity Under Medicaid Act

This bill, titled the Advancing Maternal Health Equity Under Medicaid Act, aims to improve maternal health care services under the Medicaid program by increasing federal funding. Here’s a summary of the main points:

1. Higher Federal Match Rate

The bill proposes to amend the Social Security Act to establish a higher federal matching rate for states to receive funding for maternal health care services. This would allow states to receive up to 90% of the additional funds they spend on these services, compared to what they would normally receive, starting from one year after the bill becomes law.

2. Eligibility for Additional Funding

To qualify for the additional federal matching funds, states must:

• **Supplement, not supplant**: States are required to use these federal funds to enhance existing state-level funding for maternal health services rather than replace it.
• **Improve service delivery**: Funds should be directed towards activities that enhance the capacity, efficiency, and quality of maternal health care services.

3. Definition of Maternal Health Care Services

The bill outlines what constitutes maternal health care services, which includes:

• Prenatal, labor, delivery, and postpartum care provided in hospitals, birth centers, or similar settings.
• Telehealth services during and after pregnancy.
• Home visiting programs for mothers during the prenatal and postpartum periods.
• Mental and behavioral health services for new mothers.

4. Definition of Providers

The bill defines who qualifies as a maternal care provider, including:

• Medical professionals like physicians, nurse practitioners, and certified midwives.
• Perinatal health workers, such as doulas and community health workers.

5. Timeline for Implementation

The proposed changes would take effect for a calendar year starting January 1 of the year following the enactment of the legislative changes, allowing states to prepare for the new funding structure and accountability measures.

6. Focus on Equity in Maternal Health Care

This initiative aims to address disparities in maternal health care access and outcomes by providing more resources to states, particularly those with higher rates of maternal mortality or morbidity. The goal is to ensure that all mothers, regardless of their circumstances, have access to critical health services during and after pregnancy.

Relevant Companies

None found