State Medicaid Coverage of Perinatal Services: Summary of State Survey Findings

Medicaid, which covers health and long-term care services for 59 million low income Americans, has evolved into the nation’s largest financer of maternity-related services. The program pays for more than four in 10 births nationwide, and in several states covers more than half of total births. Coverage of maternity-related care for low-income women is a central function of the Medicaid program and the range and scope of perinatal services that Medicaid covers has major implications for maternal health and birth outcomes.

This report highlights findings from the 2007/2008 State Survey of Reproductive Health Services Under Medicaid, conducted jointly by the Kaiser Family Foundation and George Washington University School of Public Health and Health Services.

The report examines state Medicaid program policies regarding coverage of pregnancy-related services. It details state-level Medicaid eligibility and enrollment policies for pregnant women, as well as scope of coverage for prenatal and screening services, delivery and post-partum care, educational classes and support services.

Report (.pdf)

COMPANION REPORT: State Medicaid Coverage of Family Planning Services: Summary of State Survey Findings

Previous version:

November 2001 (.pdf)