HARRISBURG, PA — In a significant move to address maternal health disparities, Pennsylvania’s key health departments have initiated the development of a comprehensive maternal health strategic plan. Spearheaded by the Departments of Human Services (DHS), Health (DOH), Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP), and the Insurance Department (PID), the plan aims to tackle high maternal mortality rates, particularly among Black women, and improve prenatal and postpartum care across the state.
Governor Josh Shapiro has made maternal health a priority since taking office, securing a $2.6 million increase in the 2024-25 budget dedicated to maternal mortality prevention. This funding underscores the state’s commitment to ensuring that pregnant women have access to quality health care.
Human Services Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh emphasized the urgency of the initiative: “We must do more to address the maternal mortality crisis in Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth’s plan will outline some of the most urgent issues facing pregnant women and will provide tangible steps that we can achieve to help moms, parents, and their families thrive.”
A key component of this effort is the expansion of doula services for Medicaid recipients. Earlier this year, the DHS facilitated this expansion, recognizing the positive impact doulas have on pregnancy and labor outcomes. Certified doulas can now enroll as Medicaid providers, allowing them to bill directly for services rendered during pregnancy and postpartum periods. This change not only supports expectant mothers but also strengthens the maternal health care workforce.
The strategic plan will prioritize equity and diversity, aiming to enhance access to high-quality care and address behavioral health and substance use disorder services. Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen stated, “We are working together to ensure that pregnancy and postpartum are as safe and healthy as possible for all women and their families.”
In a collaborative effort, the Shapiro Administration’s health agencies convened with representatives from various state departments and community organizations to develop actionable strategies. These discussions centered on the unique needs of different communities, aiming to foster a comprehensive and inclusive approach to maternal health.
Kelly Primus, DDAP Deputy Secretary, highlighted the importance of addressing substance use disorder in the context of maternal health: “Developing a much-needed maternal health strategic plan will help to ensure that when mother and baby are impacted by a substance use disorder, they are getting the care they need.”
To further inform the strategic plan, the departments will launch an online survey and host community events throughout September and October. These initiatives aim to gather input from those with lived experience in maternal health, ensuring that the plan reflects the needs and insights of Pennsylvanians.
Additionally, Insurance Commissioner Michael Humphreys noted ongoing efforts to expand coverage for essential services, such as doula care, surrogacy benefits, and human breast milk storage, within regulated insurance markets.
As Pennsylvania progresses with its maternal health strategic plan, the focus remains on delivering equitable and comprehensive care to ensure healthier outcomes for mothers and their children across the state.
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