The "Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies Act" aims to enhance maternal health in Arkansas by amending existing laws and introducing new provisions. The act includes the establishment of a new subchapter under Arkansas Code Title 20, Chapter 77, which focuses on maternal health. Key provisions include the Arkansas Medicaid Program's commitment to reimburse for depression screenings, prenatal, delivery, and postpartum services separately, and the implementation of presumptive eligibility for pregnant women to facilitate immediate access to prenatal care. Additionally, the act mandates coverage for self-measurement blood pressure monitoring, remote ultrasound procedures, and services provided by doulas and community health workers.

The bill also repeals and reenacts previous provisions related to depression screening for pregnant women, ensuring that the Arkansas Medicaid Program continues to support these essential health services. Furthermore, it modifies the statute of limitations for medical injury claims involving minors, particularly those related to childbirth, allowing for extended timeframes for legal action. Overall, the act seeks to improve maternal health outcomes by expanding access to necessary healthcare services and support for pregnant women in Arkansas.

Statutes affected:
SB 213: 20-77-151, 16-114-203(c)