SB 470
Allowing for doula reimbursement under Medicaid
Take action
Record your position on this measure.
Sign in to record your position, submit testimony, or contact your legislator.
Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill aims to expand Medicaid coverage in West Virginia to include doula services. It requires the Department of Health and Human Resources to amend the state plan to define a doula as a trained professional providing support during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. The plan amendment will cover two prenatal visits and two postpartum visits, reimbursing the doula $125 per visit, and will be effective no later than October 1, 2027. The bill also addresses streamlining the application process for pregnant women and children.
Key provisions
- Medicaid will cover doula services for pregnant women and their newborns.
- A doula is defined as a trained professional providing continuous physical, emotional, and informational support.
- Coverage includes antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum periods, from confirmed conception to 180 days after delivery.
- Each visit will be reimbursed at $125, adjusted annually for the consumer price index.
- The state plan amendment must be filed by October 1, 2027.
- The bill simplifies the application process for pregnant women and children.
- Pregnant women and children with incomes above the AFDC payment level will not be required to apply for AFDC benefits to maintain Medicaid eligibility.
- Payment for tubal ligations will be made without requiring a 30-day waiting period.
Who is affected
- Pregnant women
- Newborn infants
- Healthcare providers (doulas)
- Medicaid recipients
- Families with low incomes
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
No arguments in favor have been submitted.
Submit yoursArguments opposed
Reasons to oppose this legislation.
No arguments opposed have been submitted.
Submit yours