Illinois Birth Equity Act (HB 5142): What It Means for Out-of-Network Home Birth Midwives

Illinois Birth Equity Act: A Win for Home Birth Midwives

Starting January 1, 2026, the Illinois Birth Equity Act (House Bill 5142) goes into effect. This law expands insurance coverage for midwifery services and improves access to out-of-hospital birth options. For home birth midwives who are out-of-network, this is a big step forward.

From a billing perspective, the simplest and most reliable way to use these new protections is still through superbills and client self-submission.

What HB 5142 Means for Out-of-Network Midwives

• Required coverage of midwife services: Insurance plans must cover licensed midwifery care, including prenatal visits, delivery, and postpartum services.

• More visits covered: The law includes expanded prenatal and postpartum visits, lactation support, and even telehealth.

• Protection for client choice: Families have stronger rights to choose out-of-network midwives and still expect coverage.

Why Superbills Are Still the Best Option

Even with this expanded coverage, superbills remain the easiest way for home birth midwives to help clients access their insurance benefits.

• Direct reimbursement to families: Clients receive payments directly, so midwives avoid refund hassles.

• Streamlined & transparent: Clients are empowered, while midwives stay focused on care instead of claim paperwork.

• Works across all plan types: Even ERISA or self-funded plans must process superbills, keeping the system consistent.

What This Means for You and Your Clients

The Illinois Birth Equity Act (HB 5142) is a win for home birth midwives and the families they serve. With more insurance protections in place, clients are in a better position to get reimbursed for the care they value most.

By continuing to use itemized superbills for client self-submission, you’ll provide a simple, effective way to take advantage of the new law while keeping your practice streamlined.