Madison… Senator Joan Ballweg’s (R-Markesan) bill to extend access to postpartum healthcare coverage passed the Wisconsin State Senate today.
2023 Senate Bill 110 extends access to Medicaid coverage for eligible women who are in the first year postpartum. This bill is widely supported as 45 groups across Wisconsin have registered in support of this legislation, including the March of Dimes, American Heart Association, multiple healthcare providers and pro-life groups. The bill also has broad bipartisan support in both the state senate and the state assembly. Seventy-three legislators have co-sponsored this bill, which is over half of the Wisconsin State Legislature.
“Expanding postpartum Medicaid coverage for mothers to the 12th month after birth results in better health outcomes for moms and babies,” stated Ballweg. “Continuity of care is incredibly important. Wisconsin already provides 12 months of care under the Medicaid program for babies born in the state. It is important that we extend this same care to their mothers. Maternal mortality and morbidity are major concerns, and ensuring there is not a lapse in care for mothers can result in better health outcomes postpartum.”
During the public hearing for SB 110, supporters stressed how unmanaged pregnancy-related medical complications have lasting health consequences for the new mother and result in avoidable medical expenses. Uninterrupted healthcare coverage is important in not only managing pregnancy-related medical complications, but also to maintain access to mental health providers for treating postpartum depression, prescription drugs, breastfeeding support, and substance use disorder treatment.
This legislation has been referred to the Assembly Committee on Health, Aging and Long-Term Care. The bill will need to receive a public hearing and a committee vote before heading to the full assembly for a vote and going to the governor for his consideration.
