Bill > S1598

This bill, known as the BABIES Act (Better Availability of Birth Centers Improves Outcomes and Expands Savings Act), aims to address maternity care shortages by establishing two key initiatives: first, a grant program to support freestanding birth centers and, second, a Medicaid demonstration program to explore more effective payment models for birth center services. The grant program will provide up to $500,000 to 15 birth centers annually from 2026 to 2030, with special consideration given to centers in areas with maternity care provider shortages or poor maternity outcomes. The Medicaid demonstration program will allow selected states to develop and test new payment systems for birth centers, focusing on low-risk pregnancies. The program will involve up to six states receiving planning grants to develop detailed proposals, with the goal of improving access to birth center services, enhancing care quality, and potentially reducing healthcare costs. The bill includes specific requirements for birth center participation, such as accreditation, licensure, care coordination capabilities, and comprehensive service offerings. The demonstration program will run for four years, with annual reporting to Congress on clinical outcomes and cost impacts, and will include provisions for potential program expansion, modification, or termination based on results.

Budget and Finance

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1598/all-info