This bill enacts a new section of Louisiana law to provide Medicaid coverage for doula services, recognizing the benefits of such services in improving maternal health outcomes. It establishes definitions for "doula" and "doula treatment or care," and mandates that any Medicaid coverage plan offering maternity services must include doula services before, during, and after childbirth. The Louisiana Department of Health is tasked with determining the scope of services and reimbursement rates for these doula services, which include prenatal and postpartum support, assistance during labor, and education for new parents.

Additionally, the bill outlines eligibility criteria for individuals seeking doula services under Medicaid, requiring enrollment in the Medicaid program, certification of pregnancy or postpartum status by a licensed healthcare provider, and consent for doula services. It also stipulates that doulas must be registered with the Louisiana Doula Registry Board to provide services under Medicaid. The provisions of this bill will apply to new Medicaid managed care plans starting August 1, 2025, and existing plans must comply by January 1, 2026.