Cost-sharing requirements for prenatal, childbirth, neonatal, perinatal, or postpartum health care would be prohibited under a bipartisan bill cosponsored on June 5 by U.S. Reps. Young Kim (R-CA) and David Valadao (R-CA).
“Unfortunately, rising living costs on top of excessive hospital and healthcare fees after giving birth deter individuals from becoming parents,” said Rep. Kim. “We should do what we can to make life more affordable, which is why I’m proud to help lead the charge to cut childbirth cost-sharing fees and ensure women, babies, and families receive the care they deserve without astronomical costs.”
The lawmakers introduced the Supporting Healthy Moms and Babies Act, H.R. 3762, with bill sponsor U.S. Rep. Jared Golden (D-ME) to require private health insurance companies to fully cover the costs of childbirth and related maternity care, according to a bill summary provided by their offices.
“The cost of maternal care is already expensive, and too often, families with private insurance are hit with surprise medical bills they didn’t see coming,” Rep. Valadao said. “I’m proud to join my colleagues in supporting this practical, bipartisan solution that puts families first.”
H.R. 3762 would designate prenatal, birth, and postpartum care as essential health benefits (EHBs) under private insurance plans, and eliminate cost-sharing for all in-network childcare services and out-of-network care when no in-network provider is available, the summary says.
Additionally, the measure would mandate full coverage for ultrasounds, miscarriage care, delivery services, and postpartum care for up to a year after birth, and provide mental health coverage for spouses and adoptive parents, states the summary.
“Building a family already comes with so much uncertainty, but designating maternal care as an essential health benefit and eliminating cost-sharing will give parents some peace of mind during one of life’s most important moments,” said Rep. Valadao.
Companion legislation is being led by U.S. Sens. Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) in the Senate.
The bill has gained support from numerous entities, including by the American Medical Association.