Bill > HB5583

This bill establishes Medicaid coverage for doula services in Texas, defining a doula as a nonmedical birthing professional who provides support during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and the postpartum period. The bill requires the Texas Health and Human Services Commission to ensure medical assistance reimbursement for doula services, which include childbirth education, coaching, and emotional and physical support. The commission is required to seek a federal amendment to the state Medicaid plan to implement this coverage, and must consult with various stakeholders including medical assistance recipients, doulas, physicians, nurses, and healthcare facilities. The bill allows for potential delays in implementation if federal waivers are necessary and sets the effective date as September 1, 2025, with the Medicaid plan amendment to be developed no later than October 1, 2026. This legislation aims to improve maternal health support by providing financial coverage for doula services through Medicaid, potentially increasing access to supportive care during pregnancy and childbirth for low-income women.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB5583