MS HB539

Creates presumptive eligibility for ambulatory prenatal care under Medicaid for pregnant women whose income appears to meet eligibility limits based on preliminary information provided by a qualified provider.

Presumptive eligibility period lasts up to 60 days or until the Division of Medicaid makes a final eligibility determination, whichever comes first, but ends if the woman fails to apply for Medicaid by the last day of the month following the determination.

Requires pregnant women to provide proof of pregnancy and documentation of monthly family income when seeking presumptive eligibility determination.

Defines qualified providers as county health departments, federally qualified health centers (FQHCs), and other entities approved by the Division of Medicaid to make presumptive eligibility determinations.

Requires qualified providers to notify the Division of Medicaid within five working days of making a presumptive eligibility determination and inform the pregnant woman she must apply for Medicaid by the last day of the following month.

Effective July 1, 2024.