MEDICAID-BIRTH CENTER RATES

Amends the Birth Center Licensing Act. Provides that all reimbursement rates set by the Department of Healthcare and Family Services for services provided at a birth center shall be equal to the reimbursement rates set by the Department for the same services provided at a hospital. Amends the Insurance Code. Provides that a group or individual policy of accident and health insurance or a managed care plan that is amended, delivered, issued, or renewed on or after January 1, 2025 shall provide coverage for all services provided at a licensed birth center by a certified nurse midwife or a licensed certified professional midwife, including, but not limited to, prenatal care, labor and delivery care, care after birth, gynecological exams, and newborn care. Amends the Medical Assistance Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code. Provides that notwithstanding any other provision of the Code, all services provided at a birth center by a certified nurse midwife or a licensed certified professional midwife, including, but not limited to, prenatal care, labor and delivery care, care after birth, gynecological exams, and newborn care shall be covered under the medical assistance program for persons who are otherwise eligible for medical assistance. Provides that all reimbursement rates set by the Department for services provided at a birth center shall be equal to the reimbursement rates set by the Department for the same services provided at a hospital. Requires the Department to seek a State Plan amendment or any federal waivers or approvals necessary to implement the provisions of the amendatory Act. Removes a provision providing that licensed certified professional midwife services shall be covered under the medical assistance program, subject to appropriation, and that the Department shall consult with midwives on reimbursement rates for midwifery services. Effective January 1, 2025.