Federal government approval could extend postpartum Medicaid coverage in Wisconsin an additional 30 days, increasing to 90 days from the current 60 days.
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services is seeking public comment for its draft waiver request to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to extend postpartum Medicaid coverage for an additional 30 days.
Gov. Tony Evers sought a full year of postpartum coverage in his 2021-2023 budget proposal, but the Wisconsin Legislature only agreed to add 30 days. That would extend the total coverage to three months.
The state DHS is required to submit an application to extend the duration of postpartum coverage.
DHS Secretary-designee Karen Timberlake noted in a Thursday release that the goal of extending health care access is to improve health outcomes “for both the birthing person and baby.”
Online public hearings will be held on the DHS website on April 13 and April 20 from 10:00 a.m. until noon. Testimony can be provided by attending the hearing or by submitting a written statement via e-mail, fax or U.S. mail using the following information:
- E-mail: dhspostpartumcoverage1115waiver@dhs.wisconsin.gov
- Fax: (608) 266-1096
- U.S. Mail:
Department of Health Services, Division of Medicaid Services
Atten: Wisconsin 1115 Postpartum Coverage Waiver
P.O. Box 309
Madison, WI 53707-0309
A comprehensive list of the comments received through May 6 will be provided to DHS, along with a summary of the state’s responses. DHS will also consult with tribes regarding the issue.
