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Bill

A 4944

Requires DHS to conduct public awareness campaign on benefits of doula and midwife services, and educate women on NJ FamilyCare coverage of these services.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Reginald Atkins and 4 co-sponsors

DHS must conduct public awareness campaign educating NJ women about doula and midwife services covered under NJ FamilyCare to increase utilization.

Combined with A4222 (ACS)
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Bill Summary · A 4944

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 4944 mandates the New Jersey Department of Human Services (DHS) to launch a public awareness campaign informing residents about doula and midwife services and educate women specifically about NJ FamilyCare coverage for these services. The bill was combined with A4222 in March 2025, suggesting legislative consolidation of related maternal health initiatives.

Why is this important

Doulas and midwives provide evidence-based support during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum periods that can improve maternal and infant health outcomes while reducing unnecessary medical interventions. Many eligible women remain unaware these services are covered under NJ FamilyCare, creating a gap between available benefits and actual utilization that this awareness campaign aims to close.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: The bill requires DHS to fund and execute a public awareness campaign without specifying budget allocation, which may face scrutiny during appropriations review (the bill is currently in the Assembly Appropriations Committee).
  • Scope of coverage clarity: Questions may arise about which specific doula and midwife services are actually covered under NJ FamilyCare, and whether the campaign creates expectations beyond current coverage.
  • Messaging and equity: Determining how to effectively reach diverse populations with different languages, literacy levels, and healthcare access patterns could complicate campaign design and effectiveness.

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

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