Bill > SR0263

This resolution urges the Division of TennCare, Tennessee's state Medicaid program, to cover and pay for services provided by doulas, who are trained professionals offering emotional, physical, and informational support to pregnant and postpartum individuals. This action is prompted by Tennessee's high maternal mortality rate, with a significant percentage of pregnancy-related deaths deemed preventable, and the recognition that doula care, though not widely covered by insurance, has been shown to improve health outcomes for both mothers and infants, including higher breastfeeding rates and fewer low-birthweight babies. The resolution highlights that doulas can also alleviate burdens on healthcare providers and potentially reduce healthcare costs by preventing complications, and it references successful pilot programs in Tennessee that demonstrate these benefits, particularly for those in rural areas who face disparities in accessing care.

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https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SR0263&ga=114