MEDICAID: Requires doula services to be covered by Medicaid. (8/1/24) (RE INCREASE GF EX See Note)

This bill requires Medicaid to cover doula services, directly affecting pregnant and postpartum individuals enrolled in the program. The legislation mandates that healthcare plans providing Medicaid benefits must include these support services, which involve trained professionals assisting with labor, delivery, and recovery. By changing the word "must" to "shall" in the text, the bill clarifies the legal obligation for insurers to offer this coverage. This change ensures that doula care becomes a standard part of Medicaid benefits rather than an optional or uncertain addition.