Newborns can be expensive. How free diapers under this Delaware Medicaid program can help
Delaware's Medicaid program is about to become one of two in the country to provide diapers for infants covered by Medicaid.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services recently approved Delaware's request to extend a pilot program, according to the American Hospital Association. Tennessee is the second state.
Under the program, Delaware will be allowed to provide up to 80 diapers and a pack of baby wipes per week for the first 12 weeks after giving birth.
Delaware also covers diapers and other incontinence products for those with illnesses or conditions that impact their ability to control their bladder or bowels, according to the Medicaid website. The state said expanding diaper coverage supports families with infants by ensuring an adequate supply of diapers. This helps prevent avoidable visits to the doctor, improves the health of babies and reduces stress for parents.
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Improving health outcomes for vulnerable postpartum parents
This initiative is part of Delaware's broader efforts to improve health coverage, access, and quality services for Medicaid beneficiaries while promoting health equity.
In addition to diapers, the program will cover two home-delivered meals per day or one medically appropriate shelf-stable food box to support low-income postpartum mothers facing high rates of food insecurity and adverse maternal and birth outcomes.
The extension was approved based on rules under the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services that allow states to test new policies likely to advance Medicaid objectives. These trials are initially approved for five years and can be extended for an additional three to five years, depending on the populations served. States often request and receive additional five-year extensions.
The program will continue through Dec. 31, 2028, unless extended.
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Visit these websites to find out where you can get free diapers and other postpartum care services:
You can contact Anitra Johnson at ajohnson@delawareonline.com.
This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Delaware Medicaid program offering free diapers extended
