Blood Pressure MATTERS Act

This legislation aims to improve maternal health by mandating coverage for self-measured blood pressure monitoring devices for pregnant and postpartum individuals. It amends several key federal laws, including the Social Security Act (Medicaid and CHIP), the Public Health Service Act, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), and the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, to ensure this coverage is widespread. Under the bill, health plans must cover one specified blood pressure management device per individual during pregnancy and for up to 12 months postpartum, without requiring a diagnosis of a hypertensive disorder. These devices must be FDA-cleared and listed on the American Medical Association's Validated Device Listing website. Importantly, the bill prohibits any cost-sharing requirements for these devices under Medicaid, CHIP, and private health insurance plans. The coverage is limited to one device per individual within a two-year period. The provisions are set to take effect 120 days after enactment, with allowances for states requiring legislative action to implement the changes in their Medicaid and CHIP programs.