Senate passes resolution asking DMMA to report on Medicaid coverage for community health workers

The Delaware Senate on March 25 passed Senate Joint Resolution 2, which directs the Division of Medicaid and Medical Assistance (DMMA) to produce a report and plan to explore Medicaid coverage for community health worker services.

Sponsor Senator Darius Pinkney said community health workers serve as trusted intermediaries who address social‑determinant barriers and improve care for underserved populations. "By passing this resolution, we take an important step toward recognizing the vital role these frontline healthcare workers play," Pinkney said, noting that the Division of Medicaid and Medical Assistance supported the initiative and had identified funding to carry out the work.

Senator Patty Dunn asked whether DMMA had the bandwidth to complete the requested report. Pinkney replied DMMA sought a fiscal note and estimated a cost just over $100,000; federal grants covered half that amount and remaining funds would allow DMMA to work with a consultant to prepare the plan. Pinkney said the MMA (DMMA) was in agreement and able to complete the work.

The Senate recorded a roll call and declared Senate Joint Resolution 2 passed; the clerk recorded 21 yes votes. The resolution instructs DMMA to examine options for Medicaid reimbursement of community health worker services, including potential workforce and fiscal implications, and to report back to the General Assembly.

Sponsor materials and remarks cited specific local examples: Henrietta Johnson Medical Center employs two community health workers and described follow‑up and transportation gaps for patients requiring ophthalmology referrals; proponents said Medicaid coverage could support sustainable wages and expand capacity.

The resolution does not itself change Medicaid coverage; it requests a report and plan from DMMA to inform future policy decisions.