New Hampshire’s Executive Council recently made a significant decision: they approved a contract to study ways to improve women’s access to health services. This came two months after the contract was originally rejected by three Republican councilors. The change followed intense advocacy from women’s health groups and support from the two Democratic members of the council.
The study aims to ensure that women with private insurance receive necessary services mandated by federal and state laws, especially focusing on gaps in coverage for postpartum care. This is crucial, as many women often struggle to find adequate support after childbirth.
Alongside this study, the council also greenlit a contract designed to equip state regulators with the tools needed to ensure insurance companies comply with the Affordable Care Act. This includes coverage for essential services such as breastfeeding support, screenings for gestational diabetes, and help for maternal depression and domestic violence.
Janet Stevens, a Democratic member of the Executive Council, emphasized the importance of holding health insurance carriers accountable. Republican Councilor Joe Kenney, while supporting the study’s goals, initially voted against it because of concerns about potential cost increases for small businesses and individuals. He wanted to make sure that the recommendations made wouldn’t drive up health insurance premiums.
Advocates for women’s health applauded this decision, attributing it to public pressure. The New Hampshire Women’s Foundation noted the closure of 11 maternity wards, which has severely impacted women, especially in rural areas. They highlighted that women’s health should not be a political issue and that having more women in leadership roles leads to better support for women’s healthcare needs.
Stevens shared that she received about 200 messages from concerned citizens since the initial vote in May. One message that resonated with her was from a mother who experienced a C-section and felt unsupported during her recovery. Stevens, a mother herself, echoed that there’s always room for improvement in caring for women.
The contractors involved in this study have a deadline of September 2026 to complete their work, aiming to enhance healthcare access for women in New Hampshire.
Overall, this decision marks a positive step toward bridging gaps in women’s healthcare, driven by advocacy, public input, and a recognition of the unique challenges many women face in accessing necessary services.
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