Healthy Moms and Babies Act

The Healthy Moms and Babies Act would expand maternal health coverage and services for low-income pregnant and postpartum women enrolled in Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The bill would allow states to cover services provided by maternity health homes, which are designated providers or health teams offering coordinated pregnancy and postpartum care. It would also establish a demonstration program to increase access to telehealth services for pregnant and postpartum women under Medicaid.

Beyond expanding coverage, the bill would establish an advisory group focused on birthing practices for health care professionals and require a study on whether Medicaid should cover doula services. The legislation would also direct the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to develop guidance on addressing social determinants of health for pregnant and postpartum women and to identify strategies for reducing maternal mortality among Medicaid and CHIP beneficiaries. If enacted, these provisions could improve access to coordinated maternal care and support services for millions of low-income women and their babies.