Requires Medicaid to cover services by licensed certified lactation counselors and EOHHS to oversee and implement the program and track related costs and use. It also ensures reimbursement consistent with similar providers.

What This Bill Does

This bill would require Rhode Island's Medicaid program to pay for lactation counseling services provided by Licensed Certified Lactation Counselors (LCLCs). Lactation counselors are trained professionals who help new mothers with breastfeeding, addressing challenges like latching difficulties, milk supply concerns, and overall infant feeding support. Currently, these services may not be consistently covered for Medicaid recipients, and this bill would change that by making coverage mandatory.

Who It Affects and How

This bill primarily affects low-income new mothers and new parents who rely on Rhode Island's Medicaid program (called RIte Care) for their healthcare coverage. If passed, they would be able to see a Licensed Certified Lactation Counselor and have those visits paid for through Medicaid, similar to how they might see other healthcare providers. The bill also affects lactation counselors themselves, as it would require that they be reimbursed at rates comparable to other similar healthcare providers — meaning they wouldn't be paid at a lower rate simply because of their specialty.

Oversight and Tracking

The bill assigns the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) — the state agency that manages Medicaid — with the responsibility of setting up and managing this new coverage. EOHHS would also be required to track how much the program costs and how often people use these services. This tracking requirement is designed to help lawmakers and administrators monitor the program's impact over time. The bill has been referred to the Senate Finance Committee, where it will be reviewed before any further action is taken.