Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

Iowa Senate Bill SF67

Introduced

1/12/23

Introduced

1/12/23

Refer

1/12/23

Caption

A bill for an act relating to Medicaid coverage of maternity care including doula care.

Impact

The bill represents a significant step forward in modernizing Medicaid provisions, particularly concerning maternal and child health. By including doula care under Medicaid, SF67 aims to address disparities in access to comprehensive maternity support for pregnant individuals. Such an inclusion could lead to improved maternal outcomes and overall health for mothers and infants, potentially decreasing costs associated with complications arising from inadequate maternity care.

Summary

Senate File 67 (SF67) aims to enhance Medicaid coverage for maternity care in Iowa, specifically including provisions for doula care. The bill mandates the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services to adopt the necessary rules and amend contracts with managed care organizations to ensure the inclusion of doula services, which provide physical, emotional, and informational support during pregnancy and childbirth. This initiative seeks to improve birth outcomes and reduce instances of stillbirths and maternal health complications.

Contention

While the bill enjoys favorable sentiments among maternal health advocates and healthcare professionals, there may be legislative debates regarding budgetary implications and the extent of Medicaid's role in private healthcare. Critics may worry about further expanding Medicaid coverage in a state with existing budget constraints or express concerns about the regulation of doula services and the qualifications that should be required for practitioners. The successful passage of SF67 will likely depend on balancing these perspectives while prioritizing the health of mothers and children in Iowa.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IA SF132

A bill for an act relating to Medicaid coverage of maternity care including doula care.

IA SF56

A bill for an act relating to Medicaid reimbursement for maternal and child health.

IA SF462

A bill for an act relating to the Medicaid program including third-party recovery and taxation of Medicaid managed care organization premiums.(Formerly SSB 1167; See SF 567.)

IA HF525

A bill for an act relating to the Medicaid program including third-party recovery and taxation of Medicaid managed care organization premiums.(Formerly HSB 177; See HF 685.)

IA HSB177

A bill for an act relating to the Medicaid program including third-party recovery and taxation of Medicaid managed care organization premiums.(See HF 525, HF 685.)

IA SSB1167

A bill for an act relating to the Medicaid program including third-party recovery and taxation of Medicaid managed care organization premiums.(See SF 462, SF 567.)

IA HF685

A bill for an act relating to health care services and financing, including nursing facility licensing and financing and the Medicaid program including third-party recovery and taxation of Medicaid managed care organization premiums. (Formerly HF 525, HSB 177.) Effective date: 07/01/2023.

IA HB553

AN ACT relating to Medicaid coverage for doula services.

IA HF334

A bill for an act relating to coverage for the CenteringPregnancy model of group prenatal care under the Medicaid program.

IA SF567

A bill for an act relating to health care services and financing including nursing facility licensing and financing and the Medicaid program including third-party recovery and taxation of Medicaid managed care organization premiums, and providing for licensee discipline.(Formerly SF 462, SSB 1167.)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.