Sturgis-Coldwater News

State Representative Jennifer Wortz has introduced a bipartisan initiative aimed at supporting group prenatal care. The proposed legislation, House Bills 4703 and 4704, would mandate that Michigan's Medicaid program and private health insurers cover this form of prenatal care.

Group prenatal care allows pregnant women or expecting couples to participate in shared prenatal sessions. This approach provides necessary healthcare while fostering a support network among participants. These sessions typically last over an hour, offering more interaction time with healthcare providers compared to individual appointments.

"The journey of pregnancy and parenthood is one of life’s greatest joys, but it is also challenging," said Wortz, R-Quincy. "That’s why many pregnant women, especially first-time moms, are participating in group prenatal care. They get the health care they and their babies need, more time with their practitioners, and strong connections with other moms. It’s an innovative and effective way to go through pregnancy and prepare for birth. Moms and dads can form friendships that can support each other through the child-rearing years. By providing insurance coverage for group prenatal care, this bipartisan plan will help reduce costs and give babies, moms, and dads the collaborative, supportive care they need."

Research indicates that group prenatal care can enhance health outcomes for both mothers and their babies. Additionally, these group appointments may be more cost-effective for insurers than traditional individual visits.

In addition to Wortz's bills in the House, similar legislation was introduced by a Republican and a Democrat in the Senate earlier this month. A previous effort to secure medical coverage for group prenatal care passed the Senate last year with strong bipartisan support but did not advance through the House before the session ended.

House Bills 4703 and 4704 have been sent to the Committee on Insurance for further consideration.