RP 3: Postpartum Medicaid

Research Project 3 (RP3) targets the policy level. It will examine the overall effectiveness of Louisiana’s Medicaid postpartum extension and postpartum depression screening mandate on the rates of biomedical markers of maternal morbidity and healthcare utilization. The study design is a rigorous quasi-experimental approach to evaluating these policy strategies to improve maternal postpartum health by comparing trends in Louisiana, where the policies have been implemented, to trends in Mississippi, where no such policies are in effect.

Objective: Elucidate and evaluate effective implementation strategies that aim to improve maternal postpartum health in a vulnerable population with the highest risk of cardiovascular disease.

Aim: Examine the overall effectiveness of Louisiana’s Medicaid postpartum extension and postpartum depression screening mandate on the rates of biomedical markers of maternal morbidity and healthcare utilization.

Significance: The impact of extending Medicaid coverage after 60 days postpartum on maternal health has not been thoroughly evaluated.

Innovation: Utilizing innovative strategies such as emerging health policies, integrating social determinants of health, big data analytics, cost-effectiveness analysis, and the Practical, Robust, Implementation, and Sustainability Model (PRISM).

Approach: Health policy evaluations will be conducted using electronic health records and Medicaid administrative claims data from women in Louisiana expanded and a non-expanded health system, enabling screening and follow-up care even after Medicaid coverage loss.

Effect on community served: The study will involve patients, healthcare providers, legislators, and stakeholders to understand the impact of policy change on maternal health. It will identify barriers to critical healthcare and develop practices.