To track state actions regarding the extension of Medicaid postpartum coverage.
Approach:
Overview of Medicaid Coverage: The Medicaid program finances about 40% of births in the U.S., requiring states to provide coverage for 60 days postpartum.
American Rescue Plan Act Provision: The Act allows states to extend Medicaid postpartum coverage to 12 months via a state plan amendment, effective April 1, 2022.
Implementation Tracking: The article monitors states that have implemented, are planning, or have pending legislation for extended postpartum coverage.
Key Findings:
The 12-month postpartum coverage extension was made permanent by the Consolidated Appropriations Act 2023.
States can implement this extension through a state plan amendment or section 1115 waiver.
Interpretation:
Limitations:
Coverage may still be lost in non-expansion states after the initial 60 days postpartum.
Conclusion:
The article serves as a tracker for state actions related to Medicaid postpartum coverage extensions.
