Bill > S0042

This bill requires health insurance plans in South Carolina, including Medicaid, to provide comprehensive coverage for lactation consulting and doula services starting January 1, 2026. For lactation consulting, the bill defines a certified lactation consultant as a professional who meets specific ethical and practice standards, and mandates that insurance plans cover both inpatient and outpatient services addressing lactation and feeding conditions. Similarly, for doula services, the bill defines a certified doula as a professional who provides support during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, with insurance plans required to cover in-clinic and in-home services throughout the antepartum, intrapartum, and first twelve months of the postpartum period. The legislation carefully defines the scope of services for both lactation consultants and doulas, emphasizing that these professionals provide evidence-based support, education, and advocacy while working within a clear ethical framework and without practicing medicine. The bill aims to improve maternal and infant health by ensuring access to these supportive services across different types of health insurance plans, including the State Health Plan and Medicaid managed care plans, with the goal of supporting mothers, children, and families during critical periods of healthcare and child-rearing.

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https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=42&session=126&summary=B