On January 7, 2025, Governor Kim Reynolds and Iowa HHS announce the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has approved the State’s extension of postpartum coverage for new mothers.

“Last year, I was proud to sign this bipartisan bill which expands postpartum coverage for thousands of new Iowa mothers,” said Gov. Reynolds. “Maternal health care remains a central focus for me and my team. I will continue to fight for life and provide families with the support they need to raise their children and build strong, thriving families.”

The current coverage for mothers is just 60 days, but the new law expands coverage for twelve months post-birth for families within the 215% federal poverty level.

“By extending this coverage, we will be able to provide eligible Iowa mothers with insurance coverage and access to necessary and critical health care,” said Kelly Garcia, director of Iowa HHS. “Our hope remains that this extension of coverage will bridge the gaps and create new pathways for families to thrive and be successful. Healthy moms mean healthy families.”

Implementation of the postpartum coverage was set to begin this month, but due to delays in approval from the federal government, the implementation date is still forthcoming. Iowa HHS will announce the new effective date once further information is provided from CMS. Iowa joins 46 other states that have expanded postpartum coverage.