Bill > HB1201

This bill establishes a pilot program in Texas to provide Medicaid reimbursement for doula services, which are non-medical support services provided by a birthing coach during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and the postpartum period. The program will be implemented by September 1, 2026, in the state's most populous county and the county with the greatest maternal health support needs, as determined by maternal and infant mortality rates. The Health and Human Services Commission will define qualifications for doulas and determine program eligibility requirements. The commission must publish annual reports evaluating the total costs of providing doula services and their impact on birth outcomes. By September 1, 2030, the commission must submit a comprehensive report to the legislature summarizing the pilot program's results, including its effectiveness in reducing maternal mortality rates and health disparities, along with feedback from participating doulas and recipients. The pilot program is set to terminate on September 1, 2031, with the first detailed report to be published by September 1, 2027. If federal waivers are necessary for implementation, the agency can request them and delay implementation until received. The bill will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1201