Study finds fewer post-partum hospitalizations in Medicaid expansion states

States that expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) saw a 17% drop in hospitalizations among women during the first 60 days postpartum, new research shows (Source: “Medicaid expansion linked with fewer postpartum hospitalizations: research,” The Hill, Jan. 11).

According to a study published in the journal Health Affairs, states with expanded Medicaid coverage for residents with lower incomes saw a 17% drop in post-partum hospitalization within the first 60 days.

Expansion states included in the study were Iowa, Maryland, New Mexico and Washington. Rates were compared with non-expansion states Florida, Georgia, Mississippi and Utah.

Currently, 40 states (including Ohio) and Washington D.C., have expanded Medicaid under the ACA. Much of the Southeast region of the country continues to hold out on adoption, along with Texas, Kansas, Wyoming and Wisconsin.