Illinois Governor JB Pritzker Signs Law to Enhance Pregnancy and Post-Partum Care
New Legislation Addresses Disparities in Maternal Health, Mandates Insurance Coverage for Doulas and Midwives
According to the report of CBS News, on July 29, 2024, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker signed a new law aimed at improving pregnancy and post-partum care for all women. This legislation mandates that insurance companies cover all expenses for pregnancy, post-partum, and newborn care provided by doulas, lactation consultants, and midwives, including services like home births and home visits for one year. Additionally, the law allocates funds to identify and address barriers to accessing care.
Illinois Governor Pritzker pointed out that Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related issues compared to White women. He called this situation unacceptable and said the new law will help prevent such deaths and ensure fair care for all women.
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3x Higher Risk: Illinois Governor Signs Landmark Birth Equity Legislation to Reduce Maternal Mortality (PHOTO: CBS News)
New Illinois Law to Improve Maternal Health Starts January 1, 2026
The new law will start on January 1, 2026. It represents a big step toward improving health care and reducing differences in care for new mothers in Illinois.
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