Identical to S 393, filed 3/30/21.

Part I.

Directs the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to conduct a statewide analysis of doula support services, including the availability of doula and doula services, the demographic and training background diversity of doula service providers, the standards for attestation, training and certification of doulas, and the practical options for health benefit plans to include coverage for or incentivize the use of doula support services as part of value-based payments, enhanced reimbursements, or as value-added services. Requires DHHS to convene focus groups with individuals performing doula support services across the State. Directs DHHS to report to the specified NCGA committee by November 1, 2023.

Directs the DHHS, Division of Public Health (DPH) to take the following actions upon DHHS's submission of its report regarding doula support services: (1) partner with doula training programs and childbirth education organizations to help set standards for the attestation, training, and certification of doulas in NC; (2) develop doula service coverage and reimbursement options and strategies for commercial insurers offering health benefit plans in the State to consider; (3) develop bill standards for the provision of doula services; and (4) create a statewide directory of doula support service providers, including services offered.

Part II.

Directs DHHS, Division of Health Benefits (DHB) to submit a State Plan amendment to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) adding coverage under the NC Medicaid State Plan for antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum services provided to a pregnant recipient by a doula, including services for labor and delivery support and at least four visits during the antenatal period and seven visits during the postpartum period. Requires the coverage to begin July 1, 2022.

Appropriates $500,000 from the General Fund to DHB for 2021-22 to make necessary changes to the NCTracks Medicaid Management Information System to add the new coverage for doula services and to enroll new providers for that coverage.

Directs DHB to study seven specified components related to the coverage of doula services, including the way other states have implemented similar coverage or plan to implement similar coverage. Directs DHB to report to the specified NCGA committee chairs and division by March 1, 2022, on the study, and include a copy of required the State Plan amendment and the proposed reimbursement methodology to be used for the new coverage.

Part III.

States legislative intent to appropriate necessary funding to support DHHS to provide support and resources for the act's implementation.