Bill > H4344

This bill mandates comprehensive insurance coverage for doula services across various types of health insurance policies in Massachusetts. The bill defines doula services as non-medical physical, emotional, and informational support provided to individuals and families from conception through twelve months after pregnancy, including support during childbirth, adoption, pregnancy loss, and other related experiences. The legislation requires insurance policies to cover a minimum of twenty hours of prenatal and postpartum doula services per pregnancy without prior authorization, with the ability to approve additional hours for high-risk patients. Importantly, these services must be covered without any deductibles, copayments, or cost-sharing requirements, and no referral from another healthcare provider will be necessary. Doulas will be reimbursed at rates equivalent to MassHealth's rates and must follow credentialing requirements developed by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. The bill also establishes a Doula Advisory Committee composed primarily of practicing doulas and community members to provide ongoing consultation about doula services and MassHealth coverage. Additionally, the legislation ensures that doulas have continuous access to patients during labor and delivery in medical facilities. The provisions will apply to health insurance policies delivered or renewed on or after September 1, 2026.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

Joint Committee on Financial Services (Joint)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4344