Rhode Island Senate Bill S0479

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/26/25
• Refer: 2/26/25

Caption

Requires health insurance plans to cover services provided by licensed certified professional midwives. Insurers must report utilization and cost data annually. Certain limited benefit policies are exempt.

Impact

The legislation is expected to have significant implications for maternal healthcare access in Rhode Island, enabling more women to consider midwifery as a viable option for childbirth. By mandating coverage for CPM services, the bill promotes the integration of midwifery within the broader healthcare system, potentially leading to improved maternal and infant health outcomes. The bill also requires health insurance providers to annually report the utilization and cost data for CPM services, enhancing transparency and accountability in maternal health expenditure.

Summary

S0479 is a proposed act amending existing Rhode Island insurance laws to include coverage for services provided by licensed certified professional midwives (CPMs). The bill stipulates that all individual or group health insurance contracts issued or renewed from January 1, 2026, must encompass compensation for midwifery services rendered, provided those services are within the CPM's professional competence. This legislative change aims to recognize the contributions of certified professional midwives in maternal health and ensure that their services are reimbursable by health insurance plans, similar to other healthcare providers.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding S0479 may arise from concerns about the impacts on existing healthcare reimbursement structures and the regulatory landscape. Critics may argue regarding the adequacy of midwife training and certification standards, which could lead to debates over ensuring quality care. Moreover, the potential exemptions for certain limited benefit policies may generate discussions about the scope of coverage and the overall effectiveness of the bill in advancing maternal healthcare access for all women in the state.