HJAR Jul/Aug 2025

62 JUL / AUG 2025 I  HEALTHCARE JOURNAL OF ARKANSAS MEDICAID COLUMN MEDICAID THE Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) understands that early healthcare canhelpkeep expectantmothers healthy and lead to healthier babies. We also recognize that receiving prenatal care as soon as a woman knows she is pregnant is important for both the mother and the baby. Presumptive eligibility for pregnant women (PE-PW) is a Medicaid program that provides expectant mothers and their babies with immediate access to healthcare while they apply for regular Medicaid or other health coverage. It allows pregnant women who are likely to be eligible for regular Medicaid healthcare to receive prenatal care — for a limited time — without having to complete the entire application process before seeking care. Since PE-PW is a new Medicaid healthcare program in Arkansas, we understand that there may be questions. Below are some frequently asked questions about PE-PW. Presumptive Eligibility for Pregnant Women: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS