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HB 553

Maryland Medical Assistance Program - Maternal Health Self-Measured Blood Pressure Monitoring

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Tiffany Alston and 22 co-sponsors

Maryland's Medicaid now covers self-measured home blood pressure monitoring devices and remote monitoring services for pregnant and postpartum individuals to improve maternal health outcomes.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 714
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Bill Summary · HB 553

Legislative bill overview

HB 553 expands Maryland's Medical Assistance Program to cover self-measured blood pressure monitoring for pregnant individuals and those in the postpartum period. The bill mandates coverage of both the monitoring devices and remote monitoring services as part of maternal health care under the state's Medicaid program.

Why is this important

Hypertensive disorders during pregnancy are a leading cause of maternal mortality and morbidity. Home blood pressure monitoring enables earlier detection of dangerous conditions like gestational hypertension and preeclampsia, allowing for timely clinical intervention. This coverage removes financial barriers that may prevent low-income pregnant individuals from accessing this preventive health technology.

Potential points of contention

  • Program costs: Expanding Medicaid coverage increases state expenditures; fiscal impact depends on utilization rates and device/service reimbursement rates
  • Clinical efficacy standards: Questions about which monitoring devices qualify, how remote monitoring services are validated, and whether evidence supports routine use versus targeted high-risk populations
  • Implementation details: Unclear definitions around postpartum period duration, whether coverage includes necessary training, and how remote monitoring integrates with existing prenatal care infrastructure

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

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