HB 354

Abstract

Amends the Medical Assistance Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code. Requires perinatal doula services and evidence-based home visiting services to be covered under the medical assistance program for persons who are otherwise eligible for medical assistance. Provides that perinatal doula services include regular visits beginning in the prenatal period and continuing into the postnatal period, inclusive of continuous support during labor and delivery, that support healthy pregnancies and positive birth outcomes. Provides that perinatal doula services may be embedded in an existing program, such as evidence-based home visiting. Provides that perinatal doula services provided during the prenatal period may be provided weekly, services provided during the labor and delivery period may be provided for the entire duration of labor and the time immediately following birth, and services provided during the postpartum period may be provided up to 12 months postpartum. Requires the Department of Healthcare and Family Services to adopt rules. Requires the Department, during the rulemaking process, to consider the expertise of and consult with doula program experts, doula training providers, practicing doulas, and home visiting experts, along with State agencies implementing perinatal doula services and relevant bodies under the Illinois Early Learning Council. Requires the Department to seek any State plan amendments or waivers necessary to implement the amendatory Act and to secure federal financial participation for expenditures made by the Department for perinatal doula services and evidence-based home visiting services. Effective July 1, 2022.