During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the implementation of a new doula program aimed at addressing rising maternal morbidity rates in Kansas, particularly among non-Hispanic Black women. Yvonne Case, the director of operations for Medicaid, highlighted alarming statistics indicating that severe maternal morbidity rates have increased from 56.1% in 2016 to 71% currently, with a notable rise in pregnancy-associated deaths.

The meeting emphasized the role of doulas—non-clinical support professionals—who provide assistance during prenatal, labor, and postpartum stages. Research indicates that doula support can enhance birthing experiences, reduce complications, and help mitigate racial disparities in maternal health outcomes. Kansas is joining 21 other states that currently offer doula services under Medicaid, with a reimbursement rate set at $1,295 per delivery.

Case noted that the program is backed by stakeholder input and pilot programs, including a successful initiative by UnitedHealthcare in Kansas. The reimbursement structure for doulas is designed to align with other state Medicaid programs, although concerns were raised regarding the disparity between doula rates and those for physicians, which can exceed $1,700 for deliveries.

Rochelle Colombo, executive director of the Kansas Medical Society, expressed concerns about the overall reimbursement rates for Medicaid providers, which have not been comprehensively updated since 2006. She pointed out that while doulas are now recognized as reimbursable providers, the lack of increases in physician reimbursement rates could lead to limited access to care for Medicaid patients.

The meeting also addressed the complexities of Medicaid reimbursement, with discussions on how the addition of non-clinical services like doula support could impact funding for clinical services. Stakeholders emphasized the need for regular increases in reimbursement rates to ensure that physicians can continue to provide care to Medicaid patients without limiting their practice.

As the state moves forward with the doula program, officials are tasked with ensuring that the implementation is effective and that it addresses the pressing maternal health issues facing Kansas, particularly in underserved communities. The meeting concluded with a commitment to gather further data on the program's costs and its impact on overall maternal health outcomes.