Keeping Obstetrics Local Act

The Keeping Obstetrics Local Act aims to improve access to maternity care, particularly in rural and underserved communities, by requiring states to study the costs of obstetric services and ensuring hospitals receive adequate Medicaid payments. It establishes "anchor payments" for low-volume obstetric hospitals to prevent closures, mandates 12-month continuous coverage for pregnant individuals under Medicaid and CHIP, and creates health homes for coordinated maternal care. The bill also requires hospitals to notify communities 180 days before closing obstetric units and collect detailed data on labor and delivery services. This legislation directly affects rural and safety net hospitals, pregnant individuals, and maternal health providers across the country.