Pritzker Administration Announces New Medicaid Coverage for Certified Doula and Lactation Consultant Services

Lawndale News Chicago's Bilingual Newspaper - Health

New perinatal doula and lactation consultant services are now available to pregnant and postpartum individuals who are enrolled in the Illinois Medicaid program, further expanding maternal and child health coverage, a core priority for the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS). Certified doulas are trained professionals who provide a range of physical, educational and emotional supports to pregnant and birthing individuals throughout their pregnancy, birth and postpartum experience with a goal of improving health outcomes for birthing people and infants. Lactation consultants are healthcare professionals who provide breastfeeding education and support and can assist parents with any questions or challenges with breastfeeding. The coverage for certified doula services includes the entire perinatal period and up to one year postpartum, regardless of how the pregnancy ends. Covered doula services include perinatal counseling, education and supports, including newborn care; development of a birth plan and support during labor and delivery; care coordination with available community-based services; attendance at clinician visits; emotional and physical support; and visits to assist with basic infant care. To enroll as an Illinois Medicaid provider, lactation consultants must be at least 18 years old and certified as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners, certified as a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) by the Academy of Lactation Policy and Practice, Inc., or certified as a Certified Lactation Specialist (CLS) by the Lactation Education Consultants. Questions regarding certification can be directed to the SIU School of Medicine at doulacertification@siumed.edu.

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