On Thursday, a new initiative was presented by US President Terri Sewell from Alabama, Senator Tammy Duckworth from Illinois, and Congressman Andy Kim from New Jersey. This legislation aims to enhance access to prenatal care specifically for military families.
The proposed law would establish a pilot program within the Department of Defense to recognize pregnancy as a qualifying life event under the Tricare program. This change would enable service members and their spouses to choose a healthcare plan that effectively supports their pregnancy needs.
Sewell emphasized that “our military families are making extraordinary sacrifices for our country. The last thing they should worry about is accessing basic maternal health services during pregnancy. This law allows them to select a health care plan that fits their needs, ensuring that moms and babies receive the necessary care when they need it.”
Duckworth added, “After dedicating themselves to our country daily, military families shouldn’t have to navigate arbitrary hurdles to access prenatal care. Our sensible legislation allows them to easily obtain the quality care they deserve as they expand their families.”
Kim remarked, “Military moms should have the reassurance that they are receiving the right healthcare during critical times. This bill aims to eliminate barriers and alleviates the undue strain often faced by military personnel and their families.”
Under the current Tricare system, beneficiaries can only change their plans during annual open enrollment or if they experience qualifying life events (QLE), which include scenarios like childbirth or adoption, but not pregnancy itself. This new bill introduces a five-year pilot program that designates pregnancy as a QLE, allowing pregnant military families more flexibility in accessing better prenatal care coverage.
The initiative has gained support from organizations like the National Military Association of America and the Association of Military Officers.
Besa Pinciotti, CEO of the National Association of Military Families, noted, “Quality care is essential for pregnant mothers and their babies, but many face challenges in accessing that care. This legislation creates an opportunity for military families to receive necessary services. We appreciate Duckworth and Senator Kim for championing this important cause.”
USAF Lt. Gen. Brian Kelly, president and CEO of the American Association of Military Officers, stated that “access to healthcare significantly impacts military families, particularly those expecting children. Given the constraints in both military and civilian health systems, tackling these barriers to essential prenatal care is crucial for positive health outcomes. This legislation aims to improve access to care within the military health system, allowing families greater flexibility during pregnancy.”
