This bill amends Chapter 40-8 of the General Laws regarding "Medical Assistance" by introducing a new section, 40-8-33, which mandates Medicaid coverage for services provided by licensed certified professional midwives (CPMs). A CPM is defined as a trained professional who has successfully completed an accredited educational program in midwifery, holds a current certification from the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM), and is licensed to practice midwifery in accordance with 23-13-9.

The bill stipulates that the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) shall provide coverage under the Medicaid program for services provided by a licensed CPM when such services are within the CPM's lawful scope of practice and are otherwise eligible for coverage under the Medicaid state plan or a waiver approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Additionally, reimbursement for services provided by a licensed CPM shall be made in accordance with Medicaid reimbursement principles and methodologies applicable to other maternity care providers for comparable services. The bill specifies that no requirement for physician supervision, signature, or referral shall be imposed unless such requirements are also imposed on other providers for the same service.

The EOHHS is tasked with promulgating rules and regulations necessary to implement this section, including credentialing and enrollment requirements for CPMs participating as Medicaid providers. Furthermore, on or before July 1, 2028, and annually thereafter, the EOHHS shall collect and maintain data on utilization and expenditures related to services provided by CPMs to Medicaid beneficiaries.

The provisions of this section shall supersede and control over any conflicting or inconsistent laws, including general laws, special laws, or local laws, or any rule or regulation of the state. The act will take effect upon passage.