The proposed bill in Minnesota mandates the establishment of a maternal mental health program by health plans, aimed at enhancing the screening, diagnosis, treatment, and referral processes for maternal mental health conditions, including postpartum depression. By July 1, 2025, all health plan companies providing maternity benefits are required to implement this program, which must follow sound clinical principles and include quality measures. The bill also stipulates that healthcare professionals offering prenatal or postpartum care must provide screenings for maternal mental health conditions. Key amendments include the introduction of specific definitions related to maternal mental health and the responsibilities of healthcare providers in offering these screenings.

Additionally, the bill introduces new disciplinary grounds for healthcare professionals who do not comply with maternal mental health screening requirements and mandates that managed care plans and county-based purchasing plans include a maternal mental health program. It also revises existing laws concerning unprofessional conduct and healthcare provider responsibilities, emphasizing ethical conduct, proper management of medical records, and patient safety. Overall, the bill aims to improve maternal mental health care and ensure that mothers receive the necessary support during and after pregnancy, thereby strengthening the regulatory framework governing healthcare practices.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 62A.0411, 62Q.521, 147.091, 147A.13, 256B.69, 256L.12