On March 30th, Maine Governor Janet Mills signed legislation extending Medicaid postpartum coverage from 60 days to 12 months.
Cardiovascular diseases, including stroke, are the leading cause of maternal mortality in the U.S., accounting for over a third of pregnancy-related deaths. Cause-specific mortality from heart disease and stroke is highest in the 6 weeks to a year after giving birth.
Gaps in health insurance coverage, particularly for low-income individuals who qualify for Medicaid on the basis of their pregnancy status, are a significant contributor to poor maternal health outcomes. States have a unique opportunity to address this gap and ensure new mothers have timely and continuous access to care in a time when they are particularly vulnerable to health complications by extending comprehensive postpartum Medicaid coverage to a full year. These efforts are critical to mitigating preventable maternal death, reducing racial and ethnic disparities in maternal outcomes, and supporting the well-being of new moms and families.
Thank you to our amazing You’re the Cure advocates for taking action and raising your voice on this issue. You have made a difference for new moms in Maine!