Summary of neonatal and maternal transport and reimbursement policies—a 5-year update

Abstract

Objective: To examine the number of states with neonatal and maternal transport and reimbursement policies in 2019, compared with 2014. Study design: We conducted a systematic review of web-based, publicly available information on neonatal and maternal transport policies for each state in 2019. Information was abstracted from rules, codes, licensure regulations, and planning and program documents, then summarized within two categories: transport and reimbursement policies. Result: In 2019, 42 states had a policy for neonatal transport and 37 states had a policy for maternal transport, increasing by 8 and 7 states respectively. Further, 31 states had a reimbursement policy for neonatal transport and 11 states for maternal transport, increases of 1 state per category. Overall, the number of states with policies increased from 2014 to 2019. Conclusion: The number of state neonatal and maternal transport policies increased; these policies may support provision of care at the most risk-appropriate facilities.