The State of Illinois has taken significant steps to enhance maternal and infant health by introducing new perinatal doula and lactation consultant services to those enrolled in the Illinois Medicaid program. This initiative aligns with the core priority of the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) to expand maternal and child health coverage.
Certified doulas are trained professionals who support expectant and postpartum individuals by offering physical, educational, and emotional assistance throughout their pregnancy, childbirth, and recovery. Lactation consultants specialize in breastfeeding education and can help new parents navigate challenges related to breastfeeding.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker emphasized the importance of equitable healthcare access, stating, “We’re closing gaps in maternal healthcare and improving outcomes for mothers and infants.” Similarly, Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton highlighted that this coverage expansion represents a public health investment aimed at providing necessary support to every new mother and her baby, irrespective of their background.
Acting HFS Director Elizabeth M. Whitehorn noted that this initiative will broaden the spectrum of services available to expecting and birthing parents during the critical perinatal period, thereby enhancing the equity of healthcare in Illinois. IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra pointed out that increasing access to maternal support services like doulas can lead to improved health outcomes, particularly for historically marginalized communities.
The newly covered services include comprehensive lactation education and counseling throughout the entire perinatal period, and the doula services encompass perinatal planning, emotional and physical support, as well as care coordination. Both services can be accessed through telehealth, making them more attainable for families.
Key legislators, including House Majority Leader Robyn Gabel and State Sens. Mattie Hunter and Cristina Castro, reaffirmed the importance of these services in enhancing support for new mothers and reducing health disparities in maternal care.
The State of Illinois will streamline access for these services by issuing a standing recommendation, allowing Medicaid customers to receive coverage without needing a referral from a physician. This change aims to eliminate barriers and foster a more inclusive healthcare environment.
Community organizations applaud this advancement, urging continued efforts in setting sustainable provider reimbursement rates and acknowledging the need for collaboration across the healthcare spectrum to combat maternal mortality and health inequities.
Overall, this initiative represents a hopeful stride towards improving maternal health outcomes in Illinois, paving the way for healthier families and a more equitable healthcare system.
In summary, Illinois’ expansion of Medicaid services to include doulas and lactation consultants is a progressive move aimed at improving maternal and infant health, promoting equity in healthcare access, and providing essential support to new families—particularly those in vulnerable communities.