Bill > SB485

This bill requires the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) to establish a standardized system for collecting and compiling annual data on the costs associated with various women's health care services, including prenatal care, childbirth, postpartum care, pregnancy care, abortion services, and menopausal care. The MDH will develop specific reporting forms and instructions for hospitals, licensed healthcare providers, and other entities providing these services to submit aggregated budget and expenditure data, ensuring that no individually identifiable patient information is collected or reported to protect privacy and comply with federal and state laws like HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act). The collected data will be used to understand the financial impact of these services, inform public policy, evaluate the effectiveness of funds spent on women's health, identify needs, and promote transparency. Beginning December 1, 2026, and annually thereafter, the MDH must submit a comprehensive report to the General Assembly and make it publicly available, detailing aggregated cost data, regional comparisons, cost trends, and any recommendations for improving cost efficiency, all while strictly adhering to privacy protections.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0485?ys=2026RS