Bill Caption

Relating to Medicaid coverage of doula services. 

Fiscal Notes

Estimated Two-year Net Impact to General Revenue Related Funds for HB 158, Committee Report 1st House, Substituted : a NEGATIVE impact of ($832,478) through the biennium ending August 31, 2023. 

The bill would make no appropriation but could provide the legal basis for an appropriation of funds to implement the provisions of the bill. 

Bill Analysis

HB 158 would require the Health and Human Services Commission to establish a limited pilot program to provide medical assistance reimbursement for services provided by a doula. A doula is not a medical professional and does not provide medical treatment, but rather serves as a trained assistant providing support to mothers during and after the birth of a child. 

The Health and Human Services Commission would determine eligibility requirements for participation in the pilot program.

HB 158 would implement the pilot program in the most populous county in this state, and the county with the greatest maternal health support needs. The commission would be required to prepare and publish on its website by September 1 of each year: the total costs during the preceding year; and the impact on birth outcomes for women who receive services under the pilot program. 

HB 158 would require the commission by September 1, 2026 to prepare a report to the legislature summarizing the results of the pilot program; including feedback from participating doulas and recipients; and including a recommendation on the future of the program. 

Vote Recommendation Notes

This pilot program will have a cost, but that cost may be offset by reducing the need for more expensive care that would be provided absent the doula services. Texas Action is neutral on HB 158, but hopeful that the results of the program will demonstrate better outcomes for participants at a reduced cost.