States that expanded Medicaid coverage and temporarily expanded TANF (Temporary Assistance to Needy Families) during COVID-19 saw better maternal and child health outcomes.
Many women who receive Medicaid coverage during pregnancy lose health insurance before becoming pregnant or shortly after childbirth, creating gaps in access to care during critical periods for maternal health.
Strengthening TANF support by reducing administrative burdens, expanding eligibility, increasing direct cash support, and easing punitive requirements that limit access to assistance for vulnerable families improves health outcomes for mothers and children. Similarly, strengthening continuous Medicaid coverage before, during, and after pregnancy, and broadening Medicaid eligibility improves maternal health outcomes and reduces disparities. Expanding prenatal care coverage to immigrant women, regardless of documentation status, is a cost-effective strategy that also improves maternal and child health.
Expand access and coverage duration to TANF and Medicaid to improve maternal and child health outcomes.
Topic: Maternal Health and Reproductive Justice