The proposed legislation in Massachusetts aims to enhance maternal health care options by expanding services for pregnant and postpartum mothers. It addresses the lack of licensure pathways for certified professional midwives and lactation consultants in the state. If signed into law, the bill would bring significant changes, including Medicaid coverage for midwife and doula services, mandatory private insurance coverage for donor breast milk and perinatal mental health screenings, promotion of freestanding birth centers, and the establishment of a task force to evaluate maternal health care access statewide.
This comprehensive legislation is a response to the increasing rates of maternal mortality and pregnancy-related complications in Massachusetts, particularly in rural and underserved communities. State House Speaker Ronald Mariano emphasized the importance of the reforms in closing racial inequities and enhancing maternal health care across the state.
Recent reports from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health highlight a concerning rise in severe maternal morbidity rates, underscoring the need for improved maternal health services. Governor Maura Healey has ordered a review of maternal health services to ensure equitable care for all residents, especially in rural and communities of color.
The proposed bill would address challenges in accessing maternal health care by easing licensure requirements for freestanding birth centers and launching public awareness campaigns on pregnancy loss. It also includes provisions for fetal and infant mortality reviews to enhance public health programs.
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