The "Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies Act" aims to enhance maternal health in Arkansas by amending existing laws and introducing new provisions. The bill repeals the previous Arkansas Code 20-77-151 regarding depression screening for pregnant women and establishes a new subchapter under Arkansas Code Title 20, Chapter 77, specifically focused on maternal health. This new subchapter includes provisions for depression screening, coverage for prenatal, delivery, and postpartum services, presumptive eligibility for pregnant women applying for Medicaid, and reimbursement for self-measurement blood pressure monitoring and remote ultrasound procedures. Additionally, it mandates reimbursement for services provided by doulas and community health workers related to prenatal and postpartum care.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the statute of limitations for medical injury claims involving minors, particularly those related to childbirth. It specifies that if a medical injury occurs during childbirth, the minor or their representative has until the minor's fifth birthday to commence legal action. The Department of Human Services is tasked with applying for necessary federal waivers and adopting rules to implement the new provisions effectively. Overall, the act seeks to improve access to essential maternal health services and support for pregnant women in Arkansas.

Statutes affected:
HB 1427: 20-77-151, 16-114-203(c)
Act 124: 20-77-151, 16-114-203(c)