SB 1306 - This act requires the Department of Health and Senior Services to establish a health advocate program for eligible pregnant patients who request a health advocate for the duration of their pregnancy in order to navigate the health care system and communicate with the health care professionals providing health care to the patient. The health advocate shall assess the needs of the patient, prepare a birthing plan, be present in the birthing room or on call during the birthing process, advocate for the patient, and document any conflict between the patient, health care professionals, and the patient's family members. The Department shall raise awareness about the program as described in the act. Finally, this act creates the "Health Advocate Program Fund". This act is identical to SB 376 (2025) and substantially similar to SB 1240 (2024), SB 715 (2023), and HB 1234 (2023). SARAH HASKINS

2026 Regular Session

Missouri establishes state-funded health advocate program for pregnant patients to navigate healthcare, prepare birth plans, and document provider conflicts during pregnancy and childbirth.

Legislative bill overview

SB 1306 requires Missouri's Department of Health and Senior Services to establish a health advocate program providing pregnant patients with trained advocates to navigate healthcare, prepare birth plans, and support them during labor and delivery. The program includes documenting conflicts between patients, healthcare providers, and family members, with awareness-raising efforts and dedicated funding through a new Health Advocate Program Fund.

Why is this important

Maternal health outcomes vary significantly by race and socioeconomic status, with Black women facing higher maternal mortality rates. Having trained advocates present during pregnancy and childbirth can improve communication with providers, ensure patient preferences are respected, and create documentation of care gaps or conflicts—potentially addressing disparities in maternal healthcare quality and outcomes.

Potential points of contention

Cost and funding: The bill creates a new program and fund without specifying budget amounts or revenue sources, raising questions about implementation feasibility and whether it diverts resources from other health services

Provider relationships: Some healthcare professionals may view health advocates as adversarial or questioning their judgment, potentially creating workplace friction or resistance to program adoption

Access and equity: The program requires eligible patients to "request" an advocate; without clear eligibility criteria and proactive outreach, it may fail to reach the most vulnerable populations who could benefit most, potentially creating a two-tiered system