DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part of the
legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute part of the law
or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
HB 501 Original 2020 Regular Session Willard
Abstract: Requires health insurance coverage for healthcare services provided by midwives and
prohibits discrimination in reimbursement amounts.
Proposed law requires any health coverage plan delivered or issued for delivery in this state that
provides benefits for maternity services to include coverage for healthcare services provided by a
midwife, subject to annual deductibles, coinsurance, and copayment provisions as are consistent with
those established under the health coverage plan.
Proposed law provides that the insured or other person entitled to benefits under the health coverage
plan is entitled to reimbursements for services within the lawful scope of practice of a licensed
midwife as defined in law, whether the services are performed by a physician or a midwife.
Proposed law prohibits discrimination in the amount of reimbursement allowed for midwifery
services, whether performed by a midwife or physician, in instances where the services performed
are within the lawful scope of practice of both professions.
Proposed law defines "health coverage plan" and "midwife".
Effective Jan. 1, 2021.
(Adds R.S. 22:1057)