Once enacted, H8174 is expected to enhance access to maternal healthcare services for Medicaid beneficiaries by allowing CPMs to bill Medicaid directly for their services. This change brings midwifery services in line with other forms of maternity care that are already covered, thus addressing a significant gap in services. The bill also includes a provision that the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) will collect and maintain data on the utilization and expenditures related to services provided by CPMs, enhancing oversight and evaluation of these services.
Summary
House Bill H8174 aims to expand healthcare services under Rhode Island's Medicaid program by requiring coverage for services provided by licensed Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs). The bill defines a CPM as a trained professional who holds accreditation and is licensed to practice midwifery. This legislative effort reflects the growing recognition of midwifery as a legitimate and essential component of maternal healthcare, particularly for those who prefer alternative forms of support during pregnancy and childbirth.
Contention
While the bill has broad support among advocates of midwifery and women's health, there may be concerns regarding regulatory oversight and integration into the existing healthcare system. Critics may argue about the quality of care provided by CPMs compared to traditional hospital settings, as well as the implications for physician oversight. However, the bill specifically states that no requirements for physician supervision or referrals shall be imposed unless equivalent requirements are in place for other service providers. This element could lead to discussions about safety standards and the balance between access and quality of care.
Authorizes office of health and human services (EOHHS) to establish coverage for obesity treatments, including medication. Office of health and human services would seek a 1115(a) waiver.
Requires the executive office of health and human services to apply to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for a state plan amendment for reimbursement for health services in a school.
Requires the executive office of health and human services to apply to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for a state plan amendment for reimbursement for health services in a school.
Requires EOHHS to establish a 1-year pilot program for nutritional assistance and medically tailored meals, groceries and produce for peoples with diet-related diseases or food insecurity, and other interventions where there is a clinical need.
Requires EOHHS to establish a 1-year pilot program for nutritional assistance and medically tailored meals, groceries and produce for peoples with diet-related diseases or food insecurity, and other interventions where there is a clinical need.
Requires the executive office of health and human services to increase Medicaid payment rates for primary care services furnished by primary care providers to be commensurate with Medicare rates.
Increases individual, group, and Medicaid insurance rates of reimbursement for ambulance and wheelchair van services to be equal to reimbursement rates provided by Medicare for the same medical services.
Increases individual, group, and Medicaid insurance rates of reimbursement for ambulance and wheelchair van services to be equal to reimbursement rates provided by Medicare for the same medical services.
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 33; Title 36; Title 49; Title 52; Title 56; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to professional counselors.
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 33; Title 36; Title 49; Title 52; Title 56; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to professional counselors.
Occupations: individual licensing and registration; licensure of professional guardians and conservators; require. Amends sec. 303a of 1980 PA 299 (MCL 339.303a) & adds art. 14A.