House Bill No. [insert number] aims to establish Medicaid coverage for doula services in Louisiana by enacting Part V of Chapter 8 of Title 46 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes. The bill outlines legislative findings that highlight the recognized benefits of doula services by professional societies and federal agencies, as well as the state's participation in a maternal health model designed to improve healthcare outcomes for Medicaid enrollees. It defines a doula and the scope of services they provide, which includes support during labor, prenatal and postpartum education, and assistance with breastfeeding and parenting. The Louisiana Department of Health is tasked with determining the coverage scope and rates for these services.

The bill mandates that any Medicaid coverage plan providing maternity services must include doula services, with specific requirements for the number of prenatal and postpartum visits. It also establishes eligibility criteria for individuals seeking doula services under Medicaid, including enrollment in the program and certification of pregnancy by a licensed healthcare provider. Additionally, the Louisiana Department of Health is required to submit necessary amendments to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and adopt rules to implement the provisions of the bill. Existing Medicaid managed care plans must conform to these new requirements by January 1, 2026.