New Jersey Assembly Bill A4944

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/21/24
• Refer: 10/21/24
• Refer: 1/23/25

Caption

Requires DHS to conduct public awareness campaign on benefits of doula and midwife services, and educate women on NJ FamilyCare coverage of these services.

Impact

By facilitating better understanding of doula and midwife services, A4944 is designed to improve maternal and infant health outcomes across the state. It aims to educate women about the types of care available to them and the specific New Jersey FamilyCare coverage that applies to these services. This information could lead to increased utilization of doula and midwife services, potentially shifting preferences away from traditional hospital-based care models, and creating a more supportive environment for those choosing alternative birth options.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4944 aims to enhance public awareness about the advantages of services provided by certified doulas and licensed midwives in New Jersey. The bill mandates the Department of Human Services (DHS) to conduct a campaign that communicates the benefits of these services to women and individuals giving birth. This public awareness initiative will utilize both print and electronic media to reach a broad audience, emphasizing that doula and midwife care can lead to positive health outcomes for mothers and infants during critical periods: prenatal, birthing, and postpartum phases.

Contention

One notable point of discussion surrounding A4944 may revolve around the cultural competence of care provided by doulas and midwives, with advocates stressing its importance for diverse communities. Furthermore, there may be discussions on the sufficiency of the public awareness campaign in ensuring that the target demographics receive this critical information and have access to doula and midwife services. Ensuring widespread knowledge of coverage under NJ FamilyCare is vital, as some may be unaware of these options due to language barriers or misinformation about available services.