Story perspectives

Postpartum Medicaid Extended: States Fight Maternal Mortality Crisis

11/7/2025

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Summary

Story summary

bipartisan laws allow states to extend postpartum Medicaid coverage to 12 months after pregnancy.
All states except Arkansas and Wisconsin have adopted the 12-month extension.
In 2024, maternal mortality reached 18.7 per 100,000 live births, with higher risk for Black and Native women.
Funding cuts and eligibility restrictions in the 2025 budget law could limit access to care.
Stakeholders must ensure eligibility systems function properly to support new mothers.

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Story summary

bipartisan laws allow states to extend postpartum Medicaid coverage to 12 months after pregnancy.
All states except Arkansas and Wisconsin have adopted the 12-month extension.
In 2024, maternal mortality reached 18.7 per 100,000 live births, with higher risk for Black and Native women.
Funding cuts and eligibility restrictions in the 2025 budget law could limit access to care.
Stakeholders must ensure eligibility systems function properly to support new mothers.