Bill 118 s 3485, also known as the Supporting Healthy Pregnancy Act of 2023, aims to improve maternal and infant health outcomes in the United States. The bill focuses on providing support and resources to pregnant individuals to ensure they have access to quality prenatal care and services.
One key aspect of the bill is the expansion of Medicaid coverage for pregnant individuals, ensuring that all pregnant individuals have access to necessary medical care regardless of their income level. This includes coverage for prenatal visits, screenings, and other essential services to support a healthy pregnancy.
Additionally, the bill includes provisions to increase funding for maternal health research and programs aimed at reducing maternal mortality rates. This includes funding for initiatives to address racial disparities in maternal health outcomes, as Black and Indigenous individuals are disproportionately affected by maternal mortality.
The Supporting Healthy Pregnancy Act of 2023 also includes provisions to improve access to mental health services for pregnant individuals, recognizing the importance of mental health in overall pregnancy outcomes. This includes funding for mental health screenings and support services for pregnant individuals experiencing mental health challenges.
Overall, the bill aims to address gaps in maternal and infant health care in the United States and ensure that all pregnant individuals have access to the support and resources they need to have a healthy pregnancy and childbirth experience.