S. 2289: Healthy Moms and Babies Act

The Healthy Moms and Babies Act aims to improve maternal health care under Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The key components of the bill include:

Enhancements to Maternal Health Coverage

The act focuses on improving care coordination for pregnant women enrolled in Medicaid and CHIP. This includes reporting on various maternal health measures and providing states with the option to establish health homes specifically designed for expectant mothers.

Reducing Cesarean Rates

It promotes initiatives aimed at reducing the rates of cesarean deliveries, encouraging healthier delivery practices for mothers.

Community Health Workers

The bill emphasizes the use of community health workers, who can provide vital support and guidance to pregnant women, thereby contributing to better maternal health outcomes.

Assessment of Doula Services

Under the legislation, the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission (MACPAC) is tasked with evaluating Medicaid coverage for doula services and community health worker services. This assessment will also involve analyzing successful strategies to improve maternal health outcomes and suggesting actions to improve access to these services.

Guidance and Programs for Improvement

The Secretary of Health and Human Services will be required to issue guidance on the inclusion of doula and community health worker services following consultations with stakeholders. Additionally, the bill mandates the establishment of programs aimed at improving maternal health.

Information Collection and Funding

States will not need to start collecting specific information until they meet the deadlines outlined in their submitted action plans. Beginning in fiscal year 2026, the Secretary will receive $1,000,000 annually for the implementation of these initiatives.

Reporting Requirements

Reports concerning social determinants of health will need to be submitted to Congress within designated timeframes, ensuring accountability and transparency regarding the progress of these initiatives.

Relevant Companies

• UNH: UnitedHealth Group may be impacted as changes in Medicaid policies could alter how maternal health services are provided and compensated, affecting their health plans.
• CNC: Centene Corporation might experience significant changes due to its focus on Medicaid managed care, potentially reshaping their service offerings in maternal health care.