CMS Selects 15 States for Maternal Health Funding

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced the initiation of the Transforming Maternal Health (TMaH) Model, which will support 15 states, including Arkansas, with up to $17 million over ten years to improve maternal health outcomes among Medicaid and CHIP enrollees. The model aims to address physical, mental, and social needs during the perinatal period through a whole-person care approach, focusing on access to care, workforce capacity, and quality improvement. Arkansas, which has the highest maternal mortality rate in the U.S., will receive $17 million to enhance maternal health services, including training doulas and perinatal health workers to assist postpartum women. The initiative is part of a broader effort by the Biden administration to tackle maternal health disparities and improve postpartum coverage options. Monitoring the implementation in states like Arkansas and Wisconsin, which have not extended postpartum Medicaid coverage, will be crucial. The TMaH Model is expected to promote sustainable improvements in maternal healthcare while reducing overall program expenditures.