Bill > HB56

This bill requires the New Mexico Secretary of Health Care Authority to establish a new reimbursement methodology for Medicaid services at birth centers that is equivalent to hospital reimbursement rates. Specifically, the bill defines a "birth center" as a state-licensed, freestanding facility designed for low-risk deliveries that is not part of a hospital and where births are planned to occur after a low-risk pregnancy. The bill mandates that the secretary develop rules to create facility fee reimbursement rates for birth centers that are comparable to hospital rates for similar services, and also requires that annual rate increases for birth centers match those for hospitals. This legislation aims to ensure equitable financial treatment for birth centers within the Medicaid system, potentially expanding access to alternative birthing options for Medicaid recipients by making these facilities more financially viable.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=56&year=25