Helping Utah Moms

In a monumental move to address maternal health disparities, Utah legislators approved an extension of postpartum Medicaid coverage from 60 days to a full year. This crucial legislation, passed during the 2023 state legislative session and was signed into law by Governor Spencer Cox, aiming to provide comprehensive care for new mothers during a high-risk period. 

The plan submitted by Utah to the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services was finally approved in March 2024. 

The decision to extend coverage comes amid growing concerns about maternal mortality rates, particularly among communities of color. Data from the Utah Perinatal Maternal Mortality Review reveals that a significant portion of pregnancy-related deaths occur between 43 and 365 days after childbirth. Furthermore, national statistics from the Government Accountability Office underscore the urgency of addressing the maternal health crisis, with maternal deaths rising during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Utah's extension of postpartum Medicaid coverage aligns with a broader effort by the American Heart Association to improve maternal health outcomes nationwide. Utah is now the 45th state to implement a Postpartum Medicaid Extension plan. This extension not only addresses a critical gap in healthcare access but also reflects a commitment to prioritizing the well-being of mothers and families across the state. Our goal now is to monitor the claims and enrollment of the program and ensure that new mothers are receiving the high quality care they deserve, and if there are issues, to create recommendations for Medicaid and the Legislature.

Share This Story

Showing 1 reaction


Please check your e-mail for a link to activate your account.