Bill > HB454

This bill requires Louisiana Medicaid to provide comprehensive coverage for doula services, recognizing doulas as trained professionals who provide physical, emotional, and educational support to pregnant and birthing women. The legislation aims to address Louisiana's high maternal and infant mortality rates by mandating that Medicaid plans cover doula services, including five prenatal visits (up to 90 minutes each), three postpartum visits (up to 90 minutes each), and assistance during labor and birth, including cesarean deliveries. Doulas must be registered with the Louisiana Doula Registry Board to be eligible for Medicaid reimbursement, and the services will include support during labor, prenatal and postpartum education, breastfeeding assistance, parenting education, and support for pregnancy loss. The bill is partly motivated by Louisiana's selection for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Transforming Maternal Health Model, which seeks to improve maternal healthcare for Medicaid enrollees by addressing healthcare disparities. Research cited in the bill suggests that doula support can lead to lower cesarean section rates, fewer complications, shorter labor, and better infant health outcomes. The coverage will be implemented gradually, with new Medicaid managed care plans required to comply by August 1, 2025, and existing plans transitioning by January 1, 2026.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.legis.la.gov/legis/BillInfo.aspx?s=25rs&b=HB454&sbi=y