Ashley Nguyen
Gov. Tony Evers’ state budget would make significant investments in maternal and child health in Wisconsin, if passed as proposed.
The Democratic governor’s budget proposal calls for an extension of Medicaid coverage during the postpartum period, from 60 days to 12 months. The move would ensure that mothers retain health insurance during a crucial window: In Wisconsin, two out of three pregnancy-related deaths occur during the postpartum period.
If the measure remains in the final budget, Wisconsin would join a growing list of states that are extending postpartum Medicaid coverage, including Illinois and Georgia.
Evers is also proposing Medicaid coverage of doula services. Doulas cannot provide clinical care, but research shows their support can boost maternal and infant health outcomes. Four states consider doula services a covered benefit under Medicaid, including Minnesota. In 2019, U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore (D-Wis.) proposed nationwide Medicaid coverage of doula and midwifery services, but the bill failed to pass.