Iowa Extends Postpartum Medicaid Coverage, Restricts Eligibility

Iowa has extended postpartum Medicaid coverage from 60 days to 12 months, reports Iowa Public Radio. The policy change is expected to improve maternal health outcomes by ensuring continuous care for new mothers. However, the law authorizing the expansion also required the state to lower the income eligibility threshold to qualify for Medicaid coverage from 375% to 215% of the federal poverty level. As a result, an estimated 15.8% of Medicaid members with postpartum coverage are expected to lose postpartum coverage benefits. Advocates worry that the change could leave many low-income families without necessary postpartum care.