Improving Medicaid: three decades of change to better serve women of childbearing age.

ABSTRACT

Over the past 3 decades, major changes enhanced Medicaid's role in improving the health of women and perinatal outcomes. Reforms in the 1980s and 1990s had impact not only on coverage but also on current policy debates. Whether or not states expand eligibility under the Affordable Care Act, Medicaid is important. Increased coverage for well-woman visits, preconception care, and contraceptive methods are opportunities in gynecology. As a critical source of maternity coverage, Medicaid can improve prenatal care, reduce preterm births, limit early elective deliveries, and increase postpartum visits. Obstetrician-gynecologists play a role in translating coverage into access to quality services.