HB 89 by Rep. Marilyn Lands, D-Huntsville, would take an important step toward solving that problem. This bill would reduce red-tape barriers to health coverage by expanding a process known as presumptive eligibility. That would allow more expectant mothers to receive Medicaid coverage earlier in the pregnancy, when health care is essential for the mother and child.
HB 89 has bipartisan support from 10 co-sponsors and is headed to the Senate after passing the House. Read an op-ed from two of the bill sponsors here.
Email your state representative now and urge them to vote YES on HB 89!
The wait for Medicaid’s official eligibility approval can prevent mothers from receiving care earlier in their pregnancy. Areas with a lack of maternal health care access compound this issue, increasing the cost of higher-risk pregnancies and deliveries.
Presumptive eligibility allows up to 60 days of Medicaid coverage for women who have not yet been formally approved for coverage but who submit proof of pregnancy and household income information to their maternity care provider. This would allow mothers to see a doctor, receive pregnancy verification and begin prenatal care while the Medicaid approval process is ongoing.
HB 89 would help save lives while also saving money for Alabama:
- Alabama has among the nation’s highest infant mortality rates, maternal deaths and low birth weights. Maternal mortality cases are higher among patients with late or no prenatal care.
- More than 1 in 4 pregnant women (27%) do not receive prenatal care until the second trimester, according to the March of Dimes. This can lead to costly care later in pregnancy, birth or postpartum.
- Receiving prenatal care in the first trimester can offset poor outcomes and save millions by diagnosing and treating conditions that may worsen over time without medical attention, thereby reducing risk for maternal and infant death or severe complications.
- The state cost associated with presumptive eligibility – just $273,700, according to the fiscal note – is small compared to the potential savings, both in dollars and especially in lives.
Please email your state senator today and ask them to vote YES on HB 89.