House Bill No. [insert number] aims to require Medicaid coverage for doula services in Louisiana, specifically for maternity care provided before, during, and after childbirth. The bill enacts a new Part V of Chapter 8 of Title 46 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes, which includes legislative findings that highlight the benefits of doula services as recognized by leading medical organizations and federal agencies. It defines key terms related to doula services and mandates that any Medicaid coverage plan offering maternity services must include doula care. The bill specifies that Medicaid must cover a minimum of five prenatal visits and three postpartum visits, as well as support during labor and birth.

Additionally, the bill outlines the qualifications for individuals to be eligible for doula services under Medicaid, which include being enrolled in the Louisiana Medicaid program and having a licensed healthcare provider certify their pregnancy or postpartum status. The Louisiana Department of Health is tasked with submitting necessary amendments to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and implementing the provisions of the bill. The legislation is set to apply to new Medicaid managed care plans issued after August 1, 2025, and existing plans must conform by January 1, 2026.