MO SB40

Requires health insurers to provide a minimum of 48 hours of inpatient care following vaginal delivery and 96 hours following cesarean section for mother and newborn in hospitals or licensed obstetrical facilities.

Allows shorter hospital stays only if the attending physician approves after consulting with the mother and following American Academy of Pediatrics and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists guidelines.

Mandates coverage of post-discharge care consisting of a minimum of two visits (at least one in the home) by a registered professional nurse or physician, including physical assessments, parent education, feeding assistance, immunization services, and metabolic screening.

Prohibits insurers from imposing waiting periods, greater deductibles or co-payments, financial disincentives, or penalties against physicians who order maternity and newborn care consistent with this section.

Requires prominent written notice to policyholders about maternity coverage and directs the Department of Insurance to adopt rules implementing and enforcing these provisions.