This bill enacts Part V of Chapter 8 of Title 46 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes, establishing Medicaid coverage for doula services. It includes legislative findings that highlight the recognized benefits of doula support during pregnancy and childbirth, particularly in improving maternal and infant health outcomes. The bill mandates that any Medicaid coverage plan providing maternity services must include doula services, which encompass prenatal, labor, and postpartum support. It also outlines the qualifications for doulas to be recognized as providers under Medicaid and specifies that doulas must be registered with the Louisiana Doula Registry Board to receive reimbursement.

Additionally, the bill sets forth the eligibility criteria for individuals to access doula services under Medicaid, requiring enrollment in the program, certification of pregnancy or postpartum status by a licensed healthcare provider, and consent for doula services. The Louisiana Department of Health is tasked with implementing the necessary rules and submitting state plan amendments to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The provisions will apply to new Medicaid managed care plans starting August 1, 2025, and existing plans must comply by their renewal date, no later than January 1, 2026.