Illinois Governor JB Pritzker signed a law requiring state-regulated insurance plans to cover midwife services starting next year, as part of an initiative to improve maternal and infant health, particularly for Black Illinoisans. The law also mandates coverage for pregnancy and postpartum services including doula visits and lactation consultants. Additionally, licensed or certified midwives must be covered by insurance providers by 2025, with other services covered by January 2026. The expansion of insurance coverage is aimed at reducing maternal mortality rates and addressing disparities in maternal health care.
The bill signing ceremony highlighted the importance of ensuring safe and accessible care for women across all communities in Illinois. Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton emphasized the significance of reproductive care and the need to provide access to essential services for mothers and babies. The passage of the law coincided with the implementation of a restrictive abortion ban in Iowa, underscoring the importance of protecting women’s rights to healthcare.
In an effort to address health disparities, the federal waiver signed by Pritzker expands the services covered by Medicaid to include housing, food, and violence intervention services. This initiative aims to address the root causes of health inequalities and provide holistic care for vulnerable populations. State lawmakers hailed the expansion as a step towards promoting equity in housing, healthcare, and other essential services.
Overall, the recent legislative actions in Illinois signal a commitment to improving maternal and infant health outcomes, addressing disparities, and promoting overall well-being for all residents. The state is taking proactive measures to ensure access to vital healthcare services and tackle social determinants that impact health outcomes.
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