Doula, Lactation Consultant Services Available to Those Enrolled in Illinois Medicaid Program
Published on December 26 2024 8:47 am
Last Updated on December 26 2024 8:47 am
Certified doulas are trained professionals who provide a range of physical, educational and emotional supports to pregnant and birthing individuals throughout their pregnancy, birth and postpartum experience with a goal of improving health outcomes for birthing people and infants. Lactation consultants are healthcare professionals who provide breastfeeding education and support and can assist parents with any questions or challenges with breastfeeding.
“Expanding coverage to include new maternal health provider types will make available new services for expectant and birthing parents and will provide a wide range of supports during the critical perinatal period,” said Acting HFS Director Elizabeth M. Whitehorn. “This new coverage will continue to strengthen maternal and child healthcare in Illinois and improve equity – an essential part of the Department’s mission to improve the lives of Illinois families.”
“The Illinois Department of Public Health is proud to support this innovative effort to improve birth outcomes in Illinois,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “IDPH’s recent Illinois Maternal Morbidity and Mortality Report documented unacceptable racial disparities in maternal health outcomes. Increasing access to maternal supports, like doulas, has been tied to improved outcomes for Medicaid recipients and those living in historically excluded communities. Our Office of Women’s Health and Family Services is actively partnering with HFS to support this critical effort and ensure we are doing all we can to make Illinois the safest place to give birth.”
The Medicaid coverage for lactation consultant services includes the entire perinatal period through infant weaning. Covered lactation support services include perinatal education about breastfeeding and human lactation; comprehensive maternal, infant, and feeding assessments related to breastfeeding and human lactation; and evidence-based lactation counseling and the provision of support and encouragement to promote successful attainment of breastfeeding goals. Services may be delivered individually or in a group setting and may be provided in person or via telehealth.
The coverage for certified doula services includes the entire perinatal period and up to one year postpartum, regardless of how the pregnancy ends. Covered doula services include perinatal counseling, education and supports, including newborn care; development of a birth plan and support during labor and delivery; care coordination with available community-based services; attendance at clinician visits; emotional and physical support; and visits to assist with basic infant care. Prenatal and postpartum services may be provided in person or via telehealth. Support during labor and delivery must be provided in person. The expanded coverage for doula services was included in the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus healthcare pillar bill, which Gov. JB Pritzker signed into law in 2021.
