Bill > HB1782

This bill establishes a comprehensive rural maternal health care initiative with two key components: a pilot program and a commission dedicated to improving maternal healthcare in rural areas. The rural maternal health care delivery pilot program, to be coordinated by the Department of Health and Human Services, will provide prenatal and postnatal care in rural regions with limited obstetric services by collaborating with hospital systems, offering care from mid-level practitioners like certified nurse midwives and nurse practitioners, and exploring new reimbursement models. Simultaneously, a Maternity Care Improvement Commission will be created, composed of 20 members including legislators, healthcare professionals, and parents, tasked with studying and developing strategic plans to enhance maternal health in the state. The bill also includes complementary provisions such as an insurance department audit of Medicaid providers and a loan reimbursement program for certified nurse midwives and certified midwives who commit to working in underserved rural areas. The pilot program and commission will be required to submit comprehensive reports on their findings and recommendations by July 1, 2028, with the entire initiative set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Health and Social Services

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=2348&inflect=2