The "Connected MOM Act" requires a report on state Medicaid coverage of remote monitoring devices for pregnant and postpartum women, aiming to improve maternal and child health outcomes by addressing barriers to access and updating resources for state programs.
Bill Cassidy
Senator
LA
The "Connected MOM Act" directs the Department of Health and Human Services to investigate and report on the use of remote monitoring devices in state Medicaid programs for pregnant and postpartum women. The report will identify barriers to coverage and the impact on maternal health outcomes. Following the report, the Department of Health and Human Services will update resources for state Medicaid programs to align with the report's recommendations.
Connected MOM Act: Medicaid to Cover Remote Health Monitoring for Pregnant and Postpartum Women
The Connected Maternal Online Monitoring Act, or Connected MOM Act, is set to change how pregnant and postpartum women on Medicaid manage their health at home. Here’s the deal: This bill tells the Secretary of Health and Human Services to really dig into how states are using (or not using) remote health monitoring devices—think blood pressure cuffs, glucose monitors, and even scales—in their Medicaid programs.
Remote Possibilities
This bill is focused on making sure that remote physiological monitoring devices are accessible for pregnant and postpartum women. It will require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to submit a report to Congress on State practices for covering remote physiological monitoring devices. The bill mandates that this report be completed within 18 months. The goal? To find out what’s stopping these devices from getting to the moms who need them. Within six months of finishing the report, the Secretary has to update resources for all State Medicaid programs, basically giving them a playbook based on the report's best ideas.
Real-World Check-In
Imagine a mom-to-be in a rural area, far from her doctor. Instead of constant trips for check-ups, she can use a simple blood pressure monitor at home, sending data straight to her healthcare provider. Or picture a new mom managing postpartum diabetes; she can track her glucose levels without juggling a newborn and endless appointments. This is about making healthcare fit into real, busy lives—not the other way around.
The Bottom Line
By pushing for remote monitoring, the Connected MOM Act could seriously improve health outcomes for both moms and babies. It's about catching potential problems early and keeping everyone healthier. The bill also aims to streamline how Medicaid works, making sure that resources are used in the best way possible.
Looking Ahead
Now, it's not all smooth sailing. States will need to get on board and actually implement these changes. And, there's the question of how narrowly or broadly they’ll define these "remote monitoring devices." There is also the challenge of translating recommendations into real-world policies. But, if done right, this could be a big step forward in making sure every mom and baby gets the care they need, no matter where they live or how busy their lives are.