Summary as Introduced
Amends the Medical Assistance Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code. Requires hospitals and birthing centers to adopt and maintain written policies and procedures authorizing a patient enrolled in the medical assistance program to select an Illinois Medicaid certified and enrolled doula of the patient's choice to accompany the patient within the facility's premises for the purposes of providing support before, during, and after labor and childbirth, and during the patient's entire postpartum stay. Provides that the doula shall be considered part of the patient's care team and shall not be counted as a support person or against any guest quota. Requires hospitals and birthing centers to provide a written copy of their policies and procedures to maternity patients, the facilities' maternity health care providers, and any other person at the patient's request. Requires publication of the written policies on each facility's website. Contains provisions concerning hospital and birthing center liaisons and doulas certification acknowledgment requirements. Permits the Department of Healthcare and Family Services and the Department of Public Health to establish standing recommendations to meet Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services requirements and ensure access to preventive services, including Medicaid-covered maternal and reproductive health supports and services.
Staff Analysis
House Amendment 2
House Floor Amendment 2 to HB 2423 introduces requirements that support the integration of Medicaid-certified doulas into obstetric and birthing care settings in Illinois, particularly for patients enrolled in the state’s medical assistance program.
Key Provisions:
1. Policy Requirements for Hospitals and Birthing Centers
Within six months of the amendment’s enactment, all hospitals with licensed obstetric beds and birthing centers must:
• Adopt and maintain written policies and procedures allowing Medicaid patients to have an Illinois Medicaid certified and enrolled doula of their choice accompany them.
• Permit doulas to provide support before, during, and after childbirth on the facility premises.
2. Doula Not Counted Against Guest Limits
A certified Medicaid doula must not be counted as a support person or included in any facility-imposed guest quota limits, ensuring separate and protected access.
3. Transparency and Communication
Facilities must post a summary of their policies on their website, including:
• Contact information for coordination between the facility and Medicaid-enrolled doulas or doula organizations.
4. Limitations and Liability Protections
The amendment:
• Does not require patient access to doulas if such access is inconsistent with accepted medical practices.
• Does not alter or expand hospital malpractice liability, preserving current protections under Illinois law.
5. Documentation Requirement for Doulas
Doulas must provide written proof of certification and Medicaid enrollment upon request from the hospital or birthing center.
6. Regulatory Support
The Departments of Healthcare and Family Services and Public Health may create standing recommendations to ensure compliance with federal CMS requirements and to promote access to preventive services.
Potential County Impact:
• County Hospitals: County-operated or affiliated hospitals with obstetric services will need to update policies, train staff, and develop communication procedures to ensure doula access.
• Public Health Role: County health departments may play a role in coordinating doula networks, supporting Medicaid enrollment for doulas, and ensuring compliance.
• Patient Support and Outcomes: The amendment may improve maternal health outcomes and patient satisfaction for Medicaid enrollees, particularly in underserved areas.
In summary, this amendment enhances support for birthing individuals on Medicaid by guaranteeing their right to doula services in approved settings, formalizing facility responsibilities, and safeguarding both patient safety and hospital liability protections.