Oregon Birth Workers Battle Medicaid Billing Maze

Oregon's efforts to improve maternal and infant health by expanding Medicaid coverage for doulas and lactation consultants are being undermined by significant administrative and billing challenges. Professionals report constant claim rejections and extensive payment delays, creating an unsustainable environment that leads to burnout and provider attrition.

These persistent issues, flagged for years by advocacy groups, prevent birth workers from effectively serving low-income families and communities of color who most need culturally appropriate support. The complexities of navigating the Medicaid billing system, including inconsistent claim acceptance by local organizations, leave providers feeling like they are trapped in a bureaucratic maze.

While new state legislation aims to increase coverage and provide grants, many believe these changes will fall short without a fundamental fix to the underlying billing infrastructure. Ensuring timely and consistent payment is paramount for the survival of these essential services and for fulfilling the state's goal of reducing health inequities.