SB 1306 creates a new health advocate program within the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services for pregnant residents who request assistance. Subject to appropriation, the department would be required to assign a health advocate within 20 days of a request, and the assignment would continue for the duration of the pregnancy. The bill defines a health advocate as a department employee or contractor who helps the patient navigate the health care system and communicate with providers.
The bill also directs the department to set the duties of health advocates, but it specifies several core functions, including assessing the patient’s needs and background, helping prepare a birthing plan, being present or on call during labor, and advocating when conflicts arise between the patient, family members, and health care professionals. It further requires physicians providing obstetrical or gynecological care to inform pregnant patients about the program and directs the department to conduct public outreach through educational materials, a website, and a toll-free phone line.
Impact
The bill would add a new section to Chapter 192, RSMo, establishing a state-administered service for pregnant patients and creating the Health Advocate Program Fund in the state treasury. It would require the Department of Health and Senior Services to administer the program, issue rules, and use appropriated or donated funds solely for program purposes. The bill also exempts the new section from certain provisions in sections 23.250 to 23.298, and it includes standard rulemaking language tied to chapter 536.
Sentiment
Based on the bill text and the absence of recorded committee testimony or votes, the overall sentiment appears to be policy-supportive in design but dependent on funding. The measure is framed as a patient-support and maternal-health initiative, suggesting a positive intent to improve access, communication, and care coordination for pregnant residents. However, because the program is expressly subject to appropriation, its practical support would hinge on whether lawmakers are willing to fund it.
Contention
The main points of contention likely concern state cost, administrative burden, and the scope of the advocate’s role. Requiring the department to provide an advocate to any pregnant resident who requests one, and requiring physicians to notify patients about the program, could raise concerns about implementation and provider obligations. Another possible issue is that the bill allows advocates to be unlicensed or uncertified, which may prompt questions about qualifications, oversight, and the boundaries between advocacy and clinical care.