HI SR11

Department of Human Services requested to estimate budget appropriation and legislative action needed to expand Med-QUEST coverage to all eligible post-partum women for twelve months following childbirth.

Current Medicaid pregnancy coverage expires 60 days after childbirth, leaving many women without health insurance during the vulnerable post-partum period when pregnancy-related deaths are most likely to occur.

Department must submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2021 Regular Session convening.

Resolution cites that adequate medical attention could prevent three out of five post-partum deaths and notes U.S. maternal mortality rates have doubled over thirty years while declining worldwide.

Certified copies to be transmitted to Director of Human Services, CEO of Hawaii Health Systems Corporation, Oahu Regional CEO, and Chair of American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Hawaii Section.