If enacted, HB 8317 would positively affect state laws by expanding Medicaid to include essential maternity care services, addressing a critical public health crisis that has been deemed urgent due to rising maternal mortality rates. The bill emphasizes the importance of culturally congruent care, assuring that all services align with the cultural values and beliefs of the mothers receiving care. By providing comprehensive coverage, the legislation aims to enhance maternal health outcomes and reduce the number of preventable maternal deaths, which statistics indicate could account for four out of five maternal deaths in the U.S.
Summary
House Bill 8317, known as the 'Mamas First Act', aims to amend the Social Security Act by providing coverage under the Medicaid program for services rendered by doulas and midwives. The bill recognizes the significant impact that maternal health care has on outcomes for mothers and babies, especially for marginalized communities. Key findings from the bill highlight disparities in maternal mortality rates based on race and ethnicity, with Black and Indigenous women facing particularly high risks. The coverage would encompass prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care provided in various settings, including homes and hospitals, as well as through telehealth.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HB 8317 may arise from differing views on the role of non-medical providers such as doulas and midwives in maternal health. While advocates argue for the necessity of including such services in Medicaid for improving overall care and outcomes, detractors might question the implications for traditional medical practices and the allocation of Medicaid resources. There may also be discussions regarding the effectiveness and accreditation of doulas and midwives, particularly concerning the standards of training and support they provide throughout the birthing process.
Supporting the designation of the week of April 11 through April 17, 2025, as the eighth annual "Black Maternal Health Week", founded by Black Mamas Matter Alliance, Inc. (BMMA), to bring national attention to the maternal and reproductive health crisis in the United States and the importance of reducing maternal mortality and morbidity among Black women and birthing people.
MIDWIVES for Service Members Act of 2024 Maternal and Infant Delivery Wellness and Integration with Vital Expertise Support for Service Members Act of 2024
Health Equity and Accountability Act of 2024 CHANGE Act Correcting Hurtful and Alienating Names in Government Expression Act Immigrants’ Mental Health Act of 2024 Menstrual Equity For All Act of 2024 Real Education and Access for Healthy Youth Act of 2024 Data To Save Moms Act CARE for Moms Act Community Access, Resources, and Empowerment for Moms Act Senior Hunger Prevention Act of 2024 Universal School Meals Program Act of 2024