Today the Wisconsin State Senate overwhelmingly approved 12-Month postpartum coverage for new mothers with pregnancy-related Medicaid coverage. Currently in Wisconsin new mothers with pregnancy-related Medicaid coverage can lose their benefits 60 days after giving birth. Wisconsin is only one of five states that has not approved 12-month postpartum coverage.
“Our nation’s rate of maternal mortality is rising, and a growing body of evidence shows that many of these deaths, particularly from preventable causes such as suicide and overdose, occur during the 12-month postpartum period. Senate Bill 110 is a step forward to improve maternal health outcomes in Wisconsin. This legislation will prevent gaps in health insurance coverage and increase access to critical physical and mental health care during the most vulnerable time for a new mother and her baby,” said Dr. Amy Domeyer-Klenske, Chair of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists – Wisconsin Section.
“I am encouraged by this strong bipartisan effort. I want to thank Senator Joan Ballweg (R-Markesan) and Senator Mary Felzkowski (R-Irma) for their ongoing commitment to this very important policy. And to the Wisconsin State Senate thank you for coming together to take this critical step forward to support healthy moms and babies.”
The legislation has broad bipartisan support with over 70 legislative co-sponsors and over 30 leading healthcare organizations representing physicians, hospitals, insurers, and public health.
