The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 6934, aims to expand Medicaid coverage to include services provided by licensed lactation consultants who are certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners. The bill modifies subsection (a) of section 17b-277d of the general statutes, which is set to be repealed and replaced with new provisions effective July 1, 2025. The new language allows the Commissioner of Social Services to implement a bundled payment system for maternity services that encompasses payments to lactation consultants, doulas, and other nonlicensed practitioners, with the goal of improving health quality, equity, member experience, cost containment, and care coordination.

In addition to the inclusion of lactation consultants, the bill emphasizes the importance of consulting with healthcare providers, consumer advocates, and other stakeholders before implementing the new payment methodology. The overarching purpose of this act is to enhance access to necessary maternity services, reduce unnecessary costs, and improve health outcomes for Medicaid recipients. The bill reflects a commitment to supporting maternal and infant health through comprehensive care options.