Bill > A05709

This bill establishes a 14-member Doula Medicaid Reimbursement Work Group within the Department of Health to comprehensively study and develop recommendations for integrating doula services into the state's Medicaid program. The work group will be predominantly composed of doulas and maternal health experts who represent the diverse racial, ethnic, geographic, and socioeconomic backgrounds of birthing people in New York. Members, appointed by the governor and legislative leaders, will receive expense reimbursements to ensure inclusive participation. The group is tasked with conducting an in-depth study examining various aspects of doula care, including evaluating evidence-based practices, identifying successful Medicaid doula programs in other states, establishing equitable reimbursement rates for primary and substitute doulas, determining appropriate visit coverage, exploring liability insurance needs, and considering continuing education requirements for doulas. By December 31, 2025, the work group must submit a comprehensive report with their findings and recommendations to state leadership, with the ultimate goal of improving maternal and infant health outcomes, particularly in historically excluded communities, by potentially amending the state's Medicaid plan to include doula services.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5709