S. 4480 — Optimizing Postpartum Outcomes Act of 2026

This section directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to issue guidance, not later than one year after enactment, on coverage of covered pelvic health services under Medicaid State plans (or waivers) and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) State plans (or waivers) during the prenatal or postpartum period. The guidance must address (1) best practices on innovative or evidence-based State payment models to increase access, (2) recommendations on financing options under Medicaid and CHIP, including funds available through a CHIP Health Services Initiative, (3) technical assistance to States on flexibilities and incentives for screening, referral, and access, and (4) suggested terminology and diagnosis codes, such as International Classification of Diseases codes, to identify pelvic floor dysfunction and disorders. This section also requires the Comptroller General to conduct a study and submit a report to Congress within one year on gaps in coverage for covered pelvic health services for postpartum women and for other services for women who received Medicaid during pregnancy. The postpartum period is defined as the longer of the lactation period or the six-month period beginning on the last day of pregnancy, and covered pelvic health services means pelvic floor examinations and pelvic health physical therapy.

This section establishes a postpartum pelvic health education campaign within the Public Health Service Act. It directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the CDC Director in collaboration with the HRSA Administrator and other agencies and in consultation with health professional associations, to develop and carry out a program that educates and trains health professionals on pelvic floor examinations and the benefits of pelvic health physical therapy, and that educates postpartum women on the importance, process, and availability of such examinations and therapy. The section authorizes appropriations of $2 million for each of fiscal years 2027 through 2031.