New policy gives moms more postpartum care coverage

Virginia is one of several states making it easier for new moms to keep Medicaid in the year after childbirth in a new policy outlined in the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.

Before the new policy went into effect in the spring, moms on Medicaid would lose access to care within two months after the end of pregnancy.

Doctors say postpartum care is critical for new moms because it’s commonly found to be a time when depression and other health issues can arise.

The extension of coverage includes regular check-ups, behavioral health visits and specialty care, allowing moms to get treated for chronic conditions and avoid preventable complications or death.

The Kaiser Family Foundation reports the new option is available to states for the next five years.

https://www.wric.com/news/virginia-news/virginia-making-it-easier-for-new-moms-to-keep-medicaid-coverage-for-1-year-postpartum/

I'm sure Dumbkin will try to find some way around it.