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HB 158

Maryland Medical Assistance Program - Maternal Health Monitoring Pilot Program

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jamila Woods

Maryland pilots enhanced maternal health monitoring within Medicaid to reduce pregnancy complications and maternal mortality through improved screening and care coordination.

Hearing 2/04 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 158

Legislative bill overview

HB 158 establishes a pilot program within Maryland's Medical Assistance Program to implement enhanced maternal health monitoring for pregnant individuals and postpartum individuals. The bill authorizes the state to develop and test comprehensive monitoring protocols, likely including regular health assessments, risk screening, and care coordination services. The pilot would run for a defined period to evaluate effectiveness before potential statewide implementation.

Why is this important

Maternal mortality and severe morbidity rates in Maryland and nationally have risen in recent years, with significant disparities affecting Black and low-income communities. Early detection and proactive monitoring of pregnancy complications can prevent emergencies and improve outcomes. This pilot allows Maryland to test evidence-based interventions while gathering data on cost-effectiveness and implementation challenges within its Medicaid system.

Potential points of contention

  • Program costs and budget impact: Expansion of monitoring services requires funding; debate may center on whether costs are offset by prevented complications or represent new expenditures
  • Implementation scope and access: Questions about which providers participate, rural access, and whether monitoring is adequately distributed across all demographic groups served by Medicaid
  • Data privacy and surveillance concerns: Enhanced monitoring may raise questions about patient privacy, data security, and whether pregnant individuals feel monitored rather than supported

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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