Requires medical assistance to include medical care, services or supplies to monitor blood pressure that have been validated for accuracy and are furnished…

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Lea Webb says this is needed

High blood pressure during pregnancy carries potential risks and needs close monitoring. High blood pressure may begin prior to pregnancy, but in some cases, the condition can develop during pregnancy. High blood pressure in pregnant individuals can cause chronic hypertension, chronic hypertension with superimposed preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, and preeclampsia. Untreated preeclampsia can lead to serious and some- times fatal complications for both the birthing individual and the baby. Therefore, facilitating easier access to at-home blood pressure monitors is essential to prenatal and postpartum care. Regular blood pressure checks can help identify high blood pressure conditions early on, allow- ing for prompt treatment and reduced risk of complications during deliv- ery. Currently, in New York State, Medicaid provides up to $50 in coverage for blood pressure cuffs and devices, but only if ordered by a qualified practitioner as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that requires monitoring and recording of blood pressure readings in-home. It is concerning that a prescription creates unnecessary barriers to access, that none of the devices covered by Medicaid are validated by the American Medical Association, that damaged devices and cuffs are not being punctually replaced, and that coverage is not being extended for larger sized cuffs. It is particularly concerning that validated devices most beneficial to pregnant and postpartum individuals are seemingly not currently covered by Medicaid. To address this issue, this bill would require Medicaid to automatically authorize coverage for blood pressure monitors without a prescription for individuals who are pregnant.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.