H.R.3942 - Keeping Obstetrics Local Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3942, the Keeping Obstetrics Local Act, aims to enhance financial support for rural and safety net hospitals providing maternity care, expand maternal healthcare coverage, invest in the maternal healthcare workforce, and improve data collection and transparency regarding obstetric services. The bill amends Titles XIX and XXI of the Social Security Act to achieve these goals. It includes provisions for state studies on the cost of maternity services, increased Medicaid and CHIP payment rates, and expanded coverage for pregnant individuals.
Expected Effects
The bill is likely to improve access to maternity care, particularly in rural areas and for vulnerable populations. It will also increase financial support for hospitals providing these services. Furthermore, it aims to standardize and improve data collection related to obstetric care and hospital closures.
Potential Benefits
- Improved access to maternity care in rural and underserved areas.
- Increased financial stability for rural and safety-net hospitals providing obstetric services.
- Expanded healthcare coverage for pregnant and postpartum individuals under Medicaid and CHIP.
- Enhanced data collection and transparency regarding hospital obstetric unit closures.
- Investment in the maternal healthcare workforce through emergency obstetric workforce support and streamlined provider enrollment.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased federal and state spending on Medicaid and CHIP.
- Potential administrative burden on states to conduct studies and implement new payment models.
- Possible delays in implementation due to the need for state legislation and federal rulemaking.
- Risk that increased payments may not fully address the underlying issues of hospital closures.
- Potential for increased healthcare costs if not managed effectively.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Article I, Section 8), which allows Congress to provide for the health and well-being of its citizens. The expansion of Medicaid and CHIP falls under Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8) as healthcare services and insurance impact the national economy. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights or freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).