CHA supports House Bill 6937 for Medicaid coverage of children's diapers

Under the bright lights of the Connecticut State Legislature, a passionate discussion unfolded during the Human Services Public Hearing, focusing on a critical issue affecting families across the state: diaper insecurity. Advocates gathered to support House Bill 6937, which aims to expand Medicaid coverage for medically necessary children's diapers to include those under three years old.

The Connecticut Hospital Association (CHA) voiced strong support for the bill, highlighting the alarming statistic that one in two families in the U.S. faces diaper insecurity. This lack of access can lead to serious health issues, including diaper rash and urinary tract infections, which are often exacerbated by inadequate diaper hygiene. The testimony underscored that diaper insecurity is not just a health concern but also a significant risk factor for postpartum depression among new mothers.

The proposed legislation seeks to address these issues by providing targeted preventive care based on individual medical necessity. By ensuring that families have access to necessary diaper supplies, the bill aims to reduce avoidable hospital visits and severe health conditions, such as acute kidney injuries linked to frequent urinary tract infections.

Moreover, the CHA suggested that the Department of Social Services (DSS) could enhance the bill's impact by collaborating with the Diaper Bank of Connecticut. This partnership could leverage the existing distribution network to connect families with essential services, ultimately improving their overall well-being.

As the hearing concluded, the message was clear: providing coverage for medically necessary diapers is not only a matter of health care but also a vital step toward supporting families and fostering economic opportunities for caregivers. The hope is that by passing this bill, Connecticut can take significant strides in addressing diaper insecurity and its far-reaching consequences.